Audi encounters uncertainties regarding its engine, while Perez is set to test a Ferrari.

      "It’s still premature to discuss performance."

      Alarming reports regarding Audi’s preparations for 2026 are surfacing from Germany. According to f1-insider.com, Audi’s newly developed power unit may already be lagging behind the competition before even hitting the track. Early dyno results are said to indicate a deficit of up to 30 horsepower compared to Mercedes’ benchmark hybrid engine, reflecting a gap similar to Renault’s shortcomings during the initial turbo-hybrid phase.

      Italian media have even suggested that the difference might surpass 100 horsepower compared to the best early prototypes, although insiders think this figure might be overstated. Nonetheless, these rumors have overshadowed Audi’s acquisition of the Sauber team.

      Team principal Jonathan Wheatley, a former sporting director at Red Bull, downplayed the anxiety, emphasizing that the current focus remains on reliability rather than maximum power. "We are fully on schedule," Wheatley stated. "We’re focusing on reliability before the engine and chassis are combined for the first time in December. It’s still too early to discuss performance."

      The first complete integration test of the Audi powertrain with a chassis is expected by the end of the year. In the meantime, Audi CEO Gernot Dollner has reiterated the company's dedication to Formula 1, even amid broader restructuring at parent company Volkswagen. "When I joined Audi, I realized the F1 project was halfway done," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport. "We decided to rebuild it from the ground up, with the right management. Today, I’m convinced Formula 1 represents an extraordinary opportunity for Audi—a platform that will enhance our understanding of speed, efficiency, and teamwork."

      While Audi's project presents mixed signals, Cadillac’s entry into Formula 1 is rapidly progressing. Auto Motor und Sport reported that the first monocoque is currently undergoing FIA crash and stress tests. Ferrari, Cadillac’s powertrain partner, has supplied a 2023 car under ‘TPC’ regulations to train pit crews and engineers. Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas will lead the sessions, although Mercedes has yet to release Bottas until after Abu Dhabi.

      Perez, currently in Mexico for his home race this weekend, confirmed that he will test the Ferrari in Imola in early November. "I’m going to have two days in Imola, which will be very beneficial, but we’re making good progress with our preparation," he remarked. "This will be very useful because we can collaborate with the mechanics and engineers to ready the entire team for the test program, which starts in January. During the test program, we’ll already be at full capacity."

      Following a tumultuous conclusion to his Red Bull tenure, the Mexican driver sounded reenergized. "It’s always great to have a team that listens to you, supports you, and appreciates you," Perez added. "That’s what every driver dreams of."

      Cadillac’s first F1 car will debut in a plain black carbon finish for its shakedown before adopting a camouflage livery at the Barcelona testing, according to Auto Motor und Sport.