- Qatar Investment Authority has acquired a significant minority stake in Sauber Holding AG, Audi’s future Formula 1 factory team, marking QIA’s first major motorsports investment and signaling the growing global appeal of the sport.
- Audi is meticulously preparing for its official Formula 1 entry in 2026, with strategic appointments, driver selections, and facility upgrades, supported by a substantial capital injection from QIA.
- Both QIA and Audi view Formula 1 as more than a sport—it’s a global entertainment platform with significant potential for growth, fan engagement, and commercial opportunities.
Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) has signed definitive agreements to acquire a significant minority stake in Sauber Holding AG, the future factory team for Audi’s Formula 1 project. This strategic investment represents a pivotal moment not just for Audi, but for the entire motorsports landscape.
A Strategic Investment in Motorsports
The investment by QIA is more than just a financial transaction; it’s a vote of confidence in Audi’s ambitious Formula 1 vision. Mohammed Saif Al-Sowaidi, CEO of QIA, emphasized the potential he sees in both Audi and Formula 1, describing the sport as having “significant untapped potential” and highlighting the increasing global commercialization of professional sports.
For Audi, this investment comes at a critical juncture. With the technical regulations set to change in 2026, the company is preparing for its official entry into Formula 1 as a factory team. The capital injection from QIA will provide a substantial boost to the team’s infrastructure and development efforts.
Building a Competitive Team
Audi is leaving no stone unturned in its preparation. The company has already made several strategic moves to position itself for success:
- Announcing young driver Gabriel Bortoleto (20) to race alongside experienced driver Nico Hülkenberg (37)
- Confirming the complete takeover of Sauber in March
- Appointing industry veterans like Mattia Binotto as CTO and COO
- Naming Jonathan Wheatley as team principal from the middle of next year
Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG and Chairman of the Board of Sauber Motorsport AG, expressed excitement about the investment, stating that it “reflects the trust and confidence the Audi F1 Project has already garnered” and will “accelerate the team’s growth.”
QIA’s Strategic Vision
For the Qatar Investment Authority, this is their first major investment in motorsports. The move aligns with their broader strategy of seeking long-term investments with significant growth potential. Formula 1’s global popularity, increasing fan engagement, and commercialization opportunities make it an attractive sector for investment.
The sovereign wealth fund sees Formula 1 as more than just a sport—it’s an entertainment platform with worldwide reach. By partnering with a premium brand like Audi, QIA is positioning itself at the intersection of technology, sport, and global entertainment.
Facilities Gearing Up for Success
Both of Audi’s facilities in Neuburg and Hinwil are actively ramping up their capabilities to meet the rigorous standards required for Formula 1 competition. The additional capital and strategic support from QIA will undoubtedly help accelerate these preparations.
Looking Ahead
The transaction is currently subject to customary regulatory approvals. However, the excitement and potential are palpable. This partnership represents a fusion of Qatar’s strategic investment prowess, Audi’s engineering excellence, and the high-octane world of Formula 1.
As the motorsports world watches with anticipation, one thing is clear: Audi’s entry into Formula 1 in 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched developments in racing history.
