Audi sell minority stake in F1 team to Qatar Investment Authority

As a result, QIA will enter the Audi Formula 1 project as a long-term investor and partner. Sauber, who will be known as Audi in 2026, are currently the only team not to score points in the 2024 Formula 1 season. They insist Neuburg and Hinwil facilities are further ramping up to meet the standards required.

The Audi name is not yet in F1, but they are preparing for their arrival. Earlier in the year, they confirmed the appointments of Mattia Binotto (former team boss at Ferrari) and Jonathan Wheatley (from Red Bull), among other key names. They signed experienced German driver Nico Hulkenberg and recently added youngster Gabriel Bortoleto. They will start driving for the team in 2025. Audi has now added QIA, who hold assets estimated to be worth around $500 billion.

Audi sell a minority stake to QIA

“The investment by QIA reflects the trust and confidence the Audi F1 Project has already garnered, underscoring unwavering commitment of Audi to the initiative. This additional capital will accelerate the team’s growth and is yet another milestone on our long-term strategy. QIA’s involvement further energizes the dedicated efforts at both the Hinwil and Neuburg facilities as they work towards the entry of Audi in 2026," Gernot Döllner said.

Mohammed Al-Sowaidi, CEO of QIA is pleased to have the deal cross the line. “Audi is a premium partner of choice with a rich motorsport legacy. As a long-standing investor in the Volkswagen Group, we believe in Audi’s vision and direction when entering Formula 1 and our investment will support the realization of this goal. QIA believes that Formula 1 is a sport with significant untapped investment potential. The increasing commercialization of professional sports as an entertainment offering globally, and the increasingly global popularity of Formula 1, has made for an exciting opportunity for our first major motorsports investment," he said.