While F1 is on a break heading into the final triple-header of the season, the action continues behind the scenes. German media reports suggest that Qatar is preparing to invest in motorsport’s highest level by purchasing shares in Audi F1. The official announcement is expected to be made during the Qatari Grand Prix later this month.
Although the involved parties have consistently denied the rumors, the investment could be more substantial than initially thought. Back in March, Audi’s acquisition of full ownership of the Sauber Team was estimated at around 650 million euros—a seemingly inflated figure at the time, but the landscape has shifted considerably in recent months.
The introduction of Qatari owners will significantly help Audi in investing money into the franchise with reports suggesting that Qatar is prepared to invest up to €1 billion in the project if favorable conditions are met. As a potential partner, Qatar would be a natural choice for Audi, given that Qatar Airways is already a major F1 sponsor, and the nation has long viewed the championship as an ideal global showcase. Additionally, Qatar already holds a 17% stake in Volkswagen AG, making it the group’s third-largest shareholder after Porsche (53.3%) and Lower Saxony (20%), through Qatar Holding LLC.
If shares were to be sold, it would follow a familiar model in F1; for example, Mercedes currently owns just one-third of its F1 team, with the remaining shares held by team principal Toto Wolff and chemical giant INEOS.
Audi F1: Is a new powerhouse on the cards?
Earlier this year, Audi had set its expectations for its 2026 Formula 1 debut, with CEO Gernot Dollner announcing that the company has now set a “more realistic” timeline after reviewing its preparations. Initially, Audi aimed to secure race victories within three years of joining, but Dollner confirmed the team has now “recalibrated our time path.”
However, the expectations can rise significantly as a result of Qatari investment with the Middle Eastern country expected to shower money on the team, which would make their progress significantly faster. If Audi’s entry goes according to plan, the team has the potential to grow into a powerhouse, more or less like Red Bull who entered F1 in 2005 and enjoyed immense success in the sport thanks to their investments.
Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.
