Several F1 drivers have been reacting to the news that the Volkswagen Group are looking to enter the sport in 2026 with Audi and Porsche. It was confirmed this week that the German car brand's plans are into the final phase of evaluation, with Audi in contact with the FIA to obtain further clarity. Volkswagen are understood to be awaiting confirmation from Formula 1 over its final plans for 2026's regulation changes before a final decision is taken. Should Audi enter the sport as a partner to an existing team, RacingNews365.com understands that McLaren, Williams and Sauber are all under consideration.
Hamilton and Verstappen welcome "exciting" news
Amongst those to give their take on the prospect of the Volkswagen Group joining F1 is Lewis Hamilton, who would welcome the arrival of new names into the sport. "I knew about it a long time ago," Hamilton told media including RacingNews365.com . "I think it's great that we're going to get new manufacturers within the sport, especially as you see there are several teams who have potential to be top teams but are customer teams, so I think it's going to be great moving forwards, and so we welcome [them] in." Max Verstappen is also feeling positive about the news. "I think it's very exciting and very important for Formula 1 as well," the Red Bull driver said. "Of course we have 10 great teams, but also to have really big brands behind it is really nice, [to] see that commitment. I'm looking forward to what the future will bring to the teams."
More manufacturers a "good thing for Formula 1"
With McLaren amongst those linked to a potential partnership with one of the brands, Lando Norris feels that team boss Andreas Seidl is better placed to answer questions on the subject. However, the driver has joined Hamilton and Verstappen in welcoming the addition of another manufacturer. "I've got nothing to say, to be honest. It's a question for Andreas and the team, more than it is for myself," Norris explained. "But, of course, if there's more big manufacturers as a whole, then it's only a good thing for Formula 1." Valtteri Bottas, meanwhile, feels that having more names on the grid would have a nostalgic element to it. "I think it's great news," the Alfa Romeo driver said. "I think it would be nice to see actually more teams in Formula 1. At the moment it's obviously only 10, [but I] remember as a kid watching Formula 1 and the grid was much bigger, and I think it makes it even more exciting. "So yeah, [they are] more than welcome."
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