Mattia Binotto, CEO and Team Principal of Audi Revolut F1 Team, has drawn a comparison between Audi’s current Formula 1 project and Ferrari’s rebuilding phase in 1995. This assessment underscores the long-term commitment required for the German manufacturer’s ambitious entry into the sport. Binotto’s remarks highlight a structured approach to achieving future success.
Binotto assumed the role of CEO and Team Principal of the Audi F1 Project in April 2026, following an initial appointment as Head of the Audi F1 Project. He is responsible for the overall development of Audi’s 2026 Formula 1 car. This includes optimizing coordination between the chassis and the powertrain across multiple facilities.
Audi officially entered the FIA Formula 1 World Championship for the 2026 season as a power unit manufacturer and a works team. This commitment followed the acquisition of a significant stake in the Sauber Group, which now operates as the Audi factory team.
The comparison to Ferrari’s 1995 era, under Jean Todt, signifies a multi-year development cycle. Binotto stated that Audi’s objective is to contend for the World Championship by 2030. He outlined a five-year plan, dedicating the first three years to team building and the subsequent two to consolidation.
Audi has already debuted in the 2026 season, with Gabriel Bortoleto scoring the team’s first points at the Australian Grand Prix. The team has shown midfield progress during the European leg of the current season. Nico Hülkenberg is the other driver for the Audi Revolut F1 Team.
Power unit development is ongoing at the Audi Motorsport Competence Center in Neuburg an der Donau, Germany. Sauber continues to develop and manufacture the chassis at its Hinwil facility in Switzerland. The first fire-up of Audi’s 2026 power unit in its chassis provided the team with ‘incredible energy.’
For the latter half of the 2026 season, Audi is prioritizing aerodynamic development. Major hardware upgrades for the power unit are being reserved for the 2027 season. This strategic phasing is part of a measured approach to their inaugural F1 campaign.
Binotto emphasized the necessity of a clear plan and defined processes, contrasting this with his previous experience. He noted that Audi’s project involves at least 57 defined projects with clear milestones. This structured methodology is central to their long-term aspirations.
The Audi F1 project operates across multiple sites, including Hinwil, Neuburg, and a future technical centre in England. This multi-site operation requires precise coordination, a key responsibility for Binotto. The Qatar Investment Authority also acquired a minority stake in Sauber Holding AG in late 2024.
