Audi's shift accelerates in anticipation of the F1 concept unveiling.
"There are no old photographs displayed on the walls."
Audi's eagerly awaited entry into Formula 1 is starting to take tangible form, with the company announcing that it will reveal its concept F1 car on November 12, which is expected to present its 2026 livery rather than the final race chassis.
Transitioning from Sauber to full factory status is well underway behind the scenes. Veteran journalist Roger Benoit from Blick reports that significant and symbolic changes are taking place in Hinwil.
"The catering department, known for its esteemed kitchen over the years, is being discontinued," Benoit stated. "It will be replaced by the internationally recognized company Do and Co, who also cater for the Paddock Club and Mercedes. Additionally, the Audi and Silver Arrows teams are both supplied by Adidas."
He also noted pointedly: "It remains uncertain who from the former Sauber staff in Hinwil is still there."
Benoit cited a long-time employee expressing, "In our factory, everything that even slightly reminds us of Sauber is currently being taken down. There are no old pictures displayed on the walls anymore."
While the full extent of the internal changes is not yet clear, Audi is said to be eager to keep the details confidential. Nevertheless, Blick reported that the team enjoys financial stability for several years due to substantial backing from Revolut, a UK-based neobank, and Qatari state investment.
Sauber driver Nico Hulkenberg mentioned at Interlagos that the transition to Audi is speeding up: "I can confirm that the project is continuing to progress."
He added, "It's evident that next year will bring significant changes. A lot of activity is happening behind the scenes alongside the ongoing season, and we are getting increasingly closer to realizing the project. It feels more and more tangible with each week that passes."
"It hasn't significantly affected us yet, but changes will soon take place."
Other articles
Audi's shift accelerates in anticipation of the F1 concept unveiling.
Formula 1 | Audi's much-anticipated entry into Formula 1 is starting to take form, as the manufacturer has announced that it will reveal its concept F1 car (…)
