WOLFSBURG − After a series of positive talks with the FIA, FOM and existing teams, the Volkswagen group looks set to enter Formula One in 2026 with its two prominent brands, Audi and Porsche.
Although it was initially reported that both brands will enter as engine manufacturers − making potential clients out of teams, such as McLaren, Williams, Haas and Sauber – reports now suggest that either Audi or Porsche could buy out a team or form a partnership with it, with McLaren looking to be that team, claims reputable British journalist, Joe Saward.
“Audi and Porsche seem to have different ideas, with the first one that could point to the purchase of a team, and the second more interested in an exclusive partnership with an existing team, on the model of Mercedes with McLaren a few years ago.
“Wanting to buy a team, instead, for Audi, there are a few more options. For example, Sauber, which is for sale but already has an agreement in the pipeline.
“The best team available would appear to be McLaren. It might sound like heresy, but McLaren is heavily in debt, and has sold assets, and more assets, to improve their accounts.
“One could think of an association with Audi not only in sporting terms, but also in relation to technologies and road cars.” – Agencies, October 19, 2021
