The entry of Audi into Formula 1 in 2026 has generated considerable excitement and, for many, some skepticism, with many people questioning the brand’s experience in high-performance motorsport. However, a closer look at Audi’s history reveals that the manufacturer has a solid track record of success in various categories, making it a serious threat to the top teams in F1.
Unlike Cadillac, which fully acquired Sauber, Audi is entering with a factory team, having developed its own engine for the new era of F1 regulations that will come into effect in 2026. The German brand is not entering Formula 1 just to make up the numbers, as it has a clear plan for immediate success, inspired by its experience in other categories.
A classic example of Audi’s efficiency comes from its debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1999, when, with the R8R and R8C models, it finished third and fourth, despite mechanical problems. The following year, Audi put on a show, achieving a historic victory with a 1-2-3 finish, led by Frank Biela, Emanuele Pirro, and the incomparable Tom Kristensen, who would go on to win seven times at Le Mans at the wheel of an Audi.
Audi’s winning history is not limited to Le Mans. The manufacturer also excelled in the Dakar Rally, winning its first victory in 2024 with the RS e-tron, a fully electric model, driven by veteran Carlos Sainz Sr. The victory was achieved after 7,900 km of competition and marked a milestone, being the first win for an electric car in the Dakar.
The German team also made history in the early editions of the Formula E championship. With Lucas di Grassi, the team achieved the first win in the history of the category in Beijing and became the Drivers’ World Champion in 2017-2018, before withdrawing after the 2021 season. Audi’s dominance in electric categories shows that the brand is more than prepared for the challenges of the new Formula 1.
Although Audi acknowledges the greatness of the challenge of entering F1, CEO Gernot Dollner stated that the brand’s ambition is clear: “We want to win, but we know we won’t become a top team overnight.” The brand has already indicated 2030 as the year it will attempt a real title challenge.
For the leading teams, such as McLaren, Ferrari, Red Bull Racing, and Mercedes, the message is clear: Audi is coming, and its history of victories proves that it has not come just to compete, but to win victories and championships.
