Audi CEO Gernot Döllner has laid out an ambitious roadmap to success for its F1 team upon the launch of its first livery in Munich, which it is calling the "R26 Concept".
The German marque joins the paddock for the 2026 season, taking over the Sauber entry that has competed as Stake for the past two seasons.
The team will be led by drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, who both already have contracts for next year, with team principal Jonathan Wheatley and team CEO Mattia Binotto at the helm.
However, the parent group's own CEO, Döllner, has set a high bar for the fledgling project, which will also become a power unit manufacturer for F1's regulations reset over the coming off-season.
"By entering the pinnacle of motorsport, Audi is making a clear, ambitious statement," said Döllner. "It is the next chapter in the company’s renewal.
"Formula 1 will be a catalyst for the change towards a leaner, faster and more innovative Audi."
The car giant has a storied history in motorsport, including Le Mans, Rally and Formula E, but has not competed in grand prix racing since before the Second World War, over a decade before F1 was formalised and the championship as it is today was born.
Striking a defiant tone, Döllner has targeted being in title contention by 2030, which will get the team just four seasons to go from midfield runners to the sharp end of the grid.
He added: "We are not entering Formula 1 just to be there. We want to win. At the same time, we know that you don’t become a top team in Formula 1 overnight.
"It takes time, perseverance and tireless questioning of the status quo. By 2030, we want to fight for the World Championship title."
As Stake, and under the guidance of Wheatley and Binotto, the team has enjoyed a transformation in fortunes this F1 season.
After scoring just four points in 2024, it currently has 62 points and sits ahead of Alpine in the constructors' standings.
Rookie Bortoleto has impressed, and Hulkenberg was able to clinch the first podium finish of his career at the British Grand Prix in July.
Most read
Join the conversation!