Porsche: 'If that's not the case, then better no F1 at all'

Talks between Porsche and Red Bull Racing broke down, making the German carmaker's entry into Formula 1 seem far away after all. Porsche sporting director Thomas Laudenbach says F1 is still not out of the question, but a suitable partner must be found.

Porsche and Audi swap roles

Following Volkswagen Group's announcement of its interest in entering Formula 1 with two of its brands, Porsche seemed to be the leading candidate for an interesting spot on the grid from 2026. Talks on the engine regulations between Volkswagen and F1 came to a successful end; and although Volkswagen could confirm to join the king class of motorsport with Audi and Porsche, it is not certain for Porsche now.

Talks between Porsche and Red Bull on a deal where Porsche would take charge of manufacturing the engines broke down. Audi, meanwhile, did find a home with Sauber for 2026, turning the tables. Whether there will still be an entry of Porsche into Formula 1 seems far from certain. Sporting director Laudenbach, in conversation with F1-insider.com provides more information.

Porsche only in F1 with 'suitable' partner

The German would not give a concrete answer to the question how big the disappointment was over the breakdown of the deal with Red Bull: "There is no more to say about that. The topic just didn't materialize." Whether Formula 1 is now totally out of the picture, Laudenbach rules out: "The fact that the cooperation with Red Bull didn't come about doesn't mean that Formula 1 isn't interesting anyway. It is important that it fits. If that's not the case, then better not at all."

The cooperation with Formula 1 was at least boosted by Porsche a fortnight ago. Laudenbach: "Formula 1 still has a lot of appeal. That is why we have extended our Porsche Supercup contract in support of Formula 1 by eight years." Confirming the cooperation between the Porsche Supercup and Formula 1, the sporting director said he was very happy with the established trust between the two brands. So Porsche still seems to be open to Formula 1, provided there is a suitable partner.