While Audi has formalized its arrival in F1 as an engine supplier in 2026 and Sauber is rumored to be its chassis partner, the Alfa Romeo brand has announced the end of its partnership with the Swiss team at the end of the season. 2023.
The pieces of the puzzle are gradually falling into place. This Friday, in the Spa-Francorchamps paddock, Audi put an end to a false suspense. The prestigious German brand will enter Formula 1 in 2026 with an engine designed in Germany by itself. At the announcement press conference, the brand’s managers refused to confirm the rumor of a merger with Sauber, which would go through the purchase of 75% of the capital of the Swiss team, currently engaged in F1 under the name Alfa Romeo. However, a brief press release from the Stellantis group gave more substance to this rumor. Linked since 2017 by a partnership agreement which was recently confirmed for the 2023 season, Alfa Romeo and Sauber will separate at this deadline. ” Alfa Romeo announces that its partnership with Sauber Motorsport will end at the end of 2023 “, announces the automotive group.
Racing returns next week! ? Are you ready for Spa?! ? pic.twitter.com/ts28kLrRnX
— Alfa Romeo F1 Team ORLEN (@alfaromeoorlen) August 18, 2022
Alfa Romeo should give way to Audi
After having been the title partner of the Sauber team during the 2018 season, Alfa Romeo fully gave its name to the Swiss entity in 2019 on the sidelines of the agreement allowing Ferrari to supply the engine. However, according to the same press release, the Italian brand intends to keep a foothold in F1 beyond 2023. “Since the economic and industrial recovery of the brand will be achieved in 2022, Alfa Romeo will now assess the many opportunities available and then decide which will best support the long-term strategy and brand positioning. “, confirms the Stellantis group in its press release. In other words, another team currently in place could link up with the Italian brand, with Haas as a potential candidate by virtue of its close ties with Ferrari. For Sauber, after being BMW’s flagship in F1 between 2006 and 2010, it is an alliance with another German manufacturer that is looming.