Audi's entry into Formula 1 looks ever closer: 'We want to surprise'

For months now there have been increasingly loud rumors that Audi and Porsche will make their entrance into Formula 1. Parent company Volkswagen reportedly announced as early as this month that it wants to supply engines to various teams.

Audi and Porsche have not (yet) spoken out in the media about whether or not they intend to enter Formula One. On the sidelines of the Dakar Rally - in which Audi won the eighth stage today - Chief Development Officer Oliver Hoffmann was asked whether an adventure in the highest class of motorsport is indeed imminent.

Hoffman did not deny according to Autobild not. "We want to surprise with our motorsport projects," he said. In doing so, Hoffmann cited that participation in Dakar makes sense because of the innovative and progressive car concept that Audi can deploy there. In addition, the German brand will compete again at Le Mans in 2023, also with a prototype. "We'll see what else comes in the future," he said.

In other words: Audi is only stepping into projects that are innovative. Formula 1 always wants to be innovative and is planning to introduce renewable fuel along with a new generation of hybrid engines, which run even more on electricity. This could be attractive to Audi. "The FIA has made some good decisions regarding Formula 1," Hoffmann believes.