Audi Sells Minority Stake in F1 Team to Qatar Investment Authority
Audi has sold a minority stake in Sauber Holding AG to the Qatar Investment Authority, aiming to enhance its Formula 1 project ahead of the 2026 season. QIA’s investment underscores a commitment to the growth and competitive edge of the team, which has yet to score points in the current season.
Audi has divested a notable minority interest in Sauber Holding AG to the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA). Gernot Döllner, the Chief Executive of Audi, stated that this transaction will expedite the development of their Formula 1 initiative as they prepare to take full control of Sauber for the 2026 racing season. Under this partnership, QIA will become a long-term investor in Audi’s Formula 1 project, with an emphasis on enhancing the team’s performance, as Sauber is currently the only team yet to score points in the ongoing 2024 season.
Döllner articulated, “The investment by QIA reflects the trust and confidence the Audi F1 Project has already garnered, underscoring unwavering commitment of Audi to the initiative. This additional capital will accelerate the team’s growth and is yet another milestone on our long-term strategy.” Simultaneously, QIA’s CEO, Mohammed Al-Sowaidi, expressed satisfaction regarding the investment, highlighting Audi’s esteemed motorsport heritage and potential within Formula 1. Al-Sowaidi remarked, “Audi is a premium partner of choice with a rich motorsport legacy. As a long-standing investor in the Volkswagen Group, we believe in Audi’s vision and direction when entering Formula 1… QIA believes that Formula 1 is a sport with significant untapped investment potential.
This partnership promises to invigorate both the Hinwil and Neuburg facilities as they strive to meet high standards in preparation for the Audi team’s debut in the 2026 Formula 1 season, reinforcing their commitment to a strong future in competitive motorsport.
The recent collaboration between Audi and the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) emerges within a broader context of increasing commercialization and financial investment in sports, particularly in high-profile competitions such as Formula 1. As Audi gears up to compete in the 2026 season, the support from QIA not only signifies a financial boost but also highlights a strategic alliance aimed at enhancing performance and competitiveness in the elite racing circuit. This investment taps into the growing global popularity of Formula 1, which has seen an influx of investment interest as it transforms into a significant entertainment platform.
In summary, Audi’s sale of a minority stake in Sauber Holding AG to the Qatar Investment Authority marks a significant step in their preparation for the 2026 Formula 1 season. The involvement of QIA is expected to enhance Audi’s operational capabilities and competitiveness in the sport, reflecting both parties’ commitment to realizing growth potential in Formula 1, which is witnessing a surge in global interest and commercial opportunities.
Original Source: www.gpblog.com
