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With question marks over its commitment and very few public comments on its progress, what’s going on with Audi’s Formula 1 programme? Edd Straw has some answers on the latest developments
Since Gernot Dollner took over as CEO and management board chairman of Audi’s Formula 1 project, there has been intense speculation surrounding its future. Audi currently owns a 25% stake in the Sauber team, which is expected to increase to a majority share by the end of 2025. However, due to its naming deal with Alfa Romeo, the Sauber team has been hesitant to discuss the ongoing process of “Audification.” The naming agreement with Alfa Romeo will expire after this season, and it is unclear whether the team will continue as Sauber or if there will be new naming partners for 2024 and 2025 before rebranding as Audi in 2026. Nonetheless, it has been revealed that the team already has agreements with replacement commercial partners in place since last year. Despite some rumors suggesting that Audi may be having doubts, the team’s managing director, Alessandro Alunni Bravi, has emphasized Audi’s strong commitment to Formula 1. The lack of communication regarding Audi’s involvement is due to the limitations imposed by the Alfa Romeo deal. The team is fully focused on developing the structure and has a recruitment plan in place. Progress is being made under the guidance of CEO Andreas Seidl, and the investment plan is being executed according to the agreed governance.
Forrás: The Race
