Audi foreshadows factory-backed Formula 1 entry

We already knew Audi was headed for Formula 1. Now, we know it’s likely to be a factory-backed operation.

The German carmaker has posted a shadowy teaser image on its social media pages revealing the rear wing of what looks like a Formula 1 car, complete with the F1 logo on its endplates.

Images of an Audi Formula 1 car in the pit lane at the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa are also circulating on Twitter.

Expect to hear more about Audi’s entry over the coming race weekend. Based on the teaser, and on the car pictured in Belgium, the brand looks likely to field a factory-backed entry rather than merely serving as an engine supplier to another team.

Group CEO Herbert Diess earlier this year confirmed both Audi and Porsche will join the grid in some form for the 2026 season.

Mr Diess confirmed Audi was looking for a partner, but recent media reports have tied it to the McLaren Group. Along with the Formula 1 operation, the reports have linked Audi with the McLaren road car operation.

It’s also been tied to Williams, which was recently bought from the Williams family by investment firm Dorilton Capital, and the currently Alfa Romeo-backed team Sauber.

Mr Diess pointed to the new regulations coming into force in 2026 as a driver, along with the category’s bigger push into synthetic fuels. The growth of F1 in markets such as the USA and China is also a factor.