F1 News: Audi Will Double Sauber's Workforce For 2026 Entrance As Goliath Only Grows

Audi accelerates its preparations for the 2026 Formula 1 season, doubling Sauber's workforce and eyeing top-tier drivers in a bid for supremacy.

Audi intensifies preparations for its 2026 Formula 1 debut, signalling massive growth in Sauber's workforce. The ambitious venture sees the German auto giant ramping up efforts, echoing their desire for dominance in the motorsport world.

Key Takeaways:

• Audi's Sports division in Neuburg, Germany, sees rapid expansion as they prepare for their 2026 F1 entry, with significant developments already in their engine department where 350 specialists are hard at work.
• Aligning with Sauber, of which Audi already owns a minority stake, there are plans to increase the team's size from 550 to around 900 personnel, symbolizing Audi's commitment and ambitions.
• Top drivers are on Audi's radar for recruitment, with big names like Carlos Sainz hinted, and potential interests in others like Charles Leclerc, Lewis Hamilton, George Russell, and Lando Norris for the upcoming seasons.

The pace at which Audi is advancing towards their 2026 F1 debut is notable. Neel Jani, the Swiss driver, is already on board working with state-of-the-art machinery and software to develop the hybrid V6 power unit. This initiative is under the watchful eye of Adam Becker, CEO of Audi F1 Racing. Becker, with his profound motorsport experience, is leading a team with many recruited from other prestigious sporting programs, increasing its size from just 550 people to now over 900.

Red Bull's acquisition of its Powertrain division for 2026, luring Ben Hodgkinson and several engineers from Mercedes, mirrors Audi's strategy. With their acquisition of a stake in Sauber last January, Audi’s intention to dominate in F1 became clear. Sauber, presently backed by Alfa Romeo and utilising Ferrari engines, will undergo major changes under Audi's guidance.

Audi-Volkswagen Group’s esteemed legacy in racing and global markets is a massive pull factor. 

Alessandro Alunni Bravi, Sauber's managing director, stated:

“It is the advantage of representing a large manufacturer...with an important long-term project." 

The same magnetic force applies for drivers, as mentioned by Bravi, hinting at potential high-profile signings.

“Currently all the top drivers have a contract for 2024 – says Alunni Bravi -. But if later someone is available on the market and functional to the official team's project, we will seize the opportunity."

It's clear that Audi means business. And with a strong history in motorsport and equally strong experience with hybrid powertrains, they could be severely disruptive when they enter the sport in 2026.