Come 2026 Formula 1 will welcome a new competitor to the grid in the form of Audi. The German automobile manufacturer will race in the premier class of motorsport with a specially developed power unit. Audi’s foray into the FIA Formula 1 World Championship was officially confirmed ahead of this weekend’s Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps.

Audi is the latest big name that is throwing its name into the Formula 1 ring. But it remains to be seen how well the team will do compared to the fortunes of previous automobile manufacturers. BMW and Toyota were one some of the notable brands that entered the sport but without a championship to their names. However Audi could fare better due to its vast experience in motorsports.

A name that has enjoyed tremendous success in endurance racing as well as rallying, Audi will no doubt transfer its knowledge to its new arena and vice versa. But the odds could be in Audi’s favour due to new regulations and specifications being implemented.

From 2026, the electric power output for the power units, consisting of an electric motor, battery, control electronics, and a combustion engine, will increase sharply compared to today’s Formula 1 drive systems.

The electric motor will then be nearly as powerful as the combustion engine, which has an output of about 400 kW (544 hp). The highly efficient 1.6-litre turbo engines run on advanced sustainable fuel – also a prerequisite for Audi’s entry into the series.

According to Audi, the engine development project will be based at Audi Sport’s facility in Neuburg near Ingolstadt. This is the first time in more than a decade that a Formula 1 power train will be built in Germany. Audi will announce a decision on which team they will be lining up with in 2026 by the end of this year.

(Images: Audi)