It is clear that Porsche and Audi have been seriously interested in Formula 1 for some time. Audi is said to be interested in Sauber, which is still known as Alfa Romeo. However, the CEO of the Italian brand is not yet worried about the interest.
While Porsche will most likely join forces with Red Bull Racing, Audi is less certain. The team is reportedly interested in a partnership or takeover of Sauber. Sauber has been known as Alfa Romeo since 2019, but apart from the name and livery of the Sauber cars, little has changed within the team.
Alfa Romeo out, Audi in?
In 2026, new engines will be introduced to Formula 1 and this has sparked Audi's interest in taking over Sauber and perhaps turning it into the German marque's own factory team. Jean-Philippe Imparato, CEO of Alfa Romeo, says in conversation with Motorsport.com that he has been aware of Audi's interest for a long time.
Imparato says Alfa Romeo is not going to change its business model and speaks of the Italian brand taking the right decision. The CEO says Alfa Romeo was profitable as a brand in 2021 and that he is not at all worried about Audi's interest.
Profiting without high costs
Currently Alfa Romeo invests relatively little in Sauber. According to Imparato, this is a very smart move as the brand benefits from Formula 1 without the high costs. It does mean that Alfa Romeo has little involvement in Sauber; Frederic Vasseur is the team boss and he runs the team.
