In a move that showcases their determination, Audi has announced a significant shift in their management structure for the Formula 1 program. Oliver Hoffmann, a key figure in the company, will be stepping down from Audi’s management board to assume overall responsibility for the Formula 1 endeavor. Meanwhile, Andreas Seidl will take charge of the Swiss-based team. It is evident that the German automaker is keen on doing things their own way.
Hoffmann, alongside former Audi boss Markus Duesmann, played a pivotal role in spearheading this costly venture. Gernot Döllner will now succeed Hoffmann as the head of development, assuming his previous position. This change solidifies Sauber’s complete takeover by Audi, leaving no room for doubt regarding their entry into Formula 1 in 2026. Despite initial rumors suggesting hesitation, Audi has surpassed their initial ambitions by acquiring a 75% stake in the Swiss racing team, ultimately becoming its sole owner.
Furthermore, the current managing director of Sauber, Seidl, will also assume this role within the Audi team in the future. Seidl, a former team boss at McLaren, emphasized that the acquisition of Sauber will expedite the implementation of their plans. He confidently stated, “We have ambitious goals.” Reports from Germany confirm that Audi is already in the process of constructing a new Power Unit for their F1 project in Neuburg an der Donau. The chassis will be built at their Hinwill headquarters in Switzerland. Until their official entry as the Audi F1 Team, they will compete under the name Kick Sauber.
As of now, the team has yet to announce its drivers. They are likely to wait and observe the developments during the highly anticipated 2025 Silly Season, which has been ignited by Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari. This move may result in Carlos Sainz losing his drive and potentially becoming a top contender for Audi. Given their past collaboration at McLaren, a reunion with Seidl seems highly probable. However, Audi is prepared to assess the situation closer to their entry into Formula 1 in a couple of years.