Sweeping changes are about to ensue in Formula 1 in the upcoming future. Audi is all set to enter the most prestigious motorsports series in the world, taking over the title sponsorship of Sauber and changing it into Audi Works Squad. Moreover, they will be the power unit supplier for the team from 2026. This will also mark the presence of a German power unit supplier for the first time in a decade. Moreover, they have already hired a significant name to kick things off toward the said goal.
Audi’s decision to partake in F1 came after FIA WMSC approved the sustainable engine regulations. This is done in an attempt to standardize various parts and reduce fuel consumption going forward with the 1600cc V6 engines. Moreover, the German giant’s entry also marks the end of the title sponsorship of the Alfa Romeo Sauber team. Recent reports suggest Alfa Romeo is close to cutting a deal with Haas to continue their F1 presence.
Audi has a huge task going ahead, with huge bucks and prestige at risk. As the constant updates suggest, its Formula 1 project has already kicked off in recent months. They have a team of close to 260 personnel working at the expanded Neuberg facility of Audi. Now, under the leadership of CEO Adam Baker, they have signed an experienced motorsports personality and 24 Hours Le Mans winner Neel Jani.
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Former Red Bull Simulator Driver Expected to Bring Valuable Experience to Audi
Earlier this year, Audi announced the intention to test the engine as part of its presentation of the F1 project at the Auto Shanghai automobile show. This primarily gives an idea of the importance of the Chinese market to the sport. However, to achieve this, they needed an experienced personality to give important assistance with the Sim work. Neel Jani, with his former ties with Sauber in the same capacity, fits the criteria perfectly.
“I am delighted to accompany Audi on their way into Formula 1. It is both an honor and a great responsibility to be involved in a project of this magnitude at an early stage. I am sure that with my experience from Formula 1 and LMP projects, I can forge good links between theory and practice,” said the former Red Bull man.
Recently, Oliver Hoffman, a member of the Techincal Board at Audi AG talked about their current course of action and Jani’s contribution to it. “Just like in product development, simulation plays a major role in our Formula 1 project. Our simulator is an important tool for the power unit development. It requires a development driver who in addition to a grasp of technology brings versatile experience to the project, especially in terms of energy management in racing conditions,” said Hoffman.
Audi is all set to test their first specimen by the end of 2023 itself. Tell us how excited you are to see the German car giants in F1. Comment below.
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