Audi Announces Minority Stake Sale in Sauber to Qatar Investment Authority
Audi has sold a minority stake in Sauber Holding AG to the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) as part of their strategy to enhance their Formula 1 involvement. The partnership will support Audi’s efforts leading into the 2026 season while also bringing significant investment into the team. Both Audi and QIA expressed confidence in the potential of Formula 1 as a growing commercial sport.
Audi has successfully sold a minority stake in Sauber Holding AG to the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), marking a significant step towards strengthening their involvement in Formula 1. Gernot Döllner, the head of Audi, emphasized that this partnership will not only bolster the team’s growth but also expedite their Formula 1 project ahead of the 2026 season, during which Audi is set to fully acquire Sauber. Currently, Sauber is the only team yet to earn points in the ongoing 2024 season, but Audi is optimistic about their future performance as they ramp up development at the Neuburg and Hinwil facilities. The team’s lineup will feature Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto as drivers.
The investment from the QIA is viewed as a long-term commitment to Audi’s Formula 1 aspirations. Gernot Döllner stated, “The investment by QIA reflects the trust and confidence the Audi F1 Project has already garnered, underscoring the unwavering commitment of Audi to the initiative. This additional capital will accelerate the team’s growth and is yet another milestone on our long-term strategy.”
Mohammed Al-Sowaidi, the CEO of QIA, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, asserting, “Audi is a premium partner of choice with a rich motorsport legacy. As a long-standing investor in the Volkswagen Group, we believe in Audi’s vision and direction when entering Formula 1 and our investment will support the realization of this goal. QIA believes that Formula 1 is a sport with significant untapped investment potential.” This collaboration reflects a strategic move into the expanding commercial landscape of professional sports, particularly in the increasingly popular realm of Formula 1.
In recent years, Formula 1 has seen a surge in investment from various sectors due to its growing global appeal and commercial potential. Audi’s involvement in the sport, particularly through the acquisition of Sauber, aligns with a trend where automotive manufacturers invest directly in racing teams to enhance branding and engineering collaboration. The partnership with QIA signals confidence in this strategy, as well as the expectation of high returns in the dynamic environment of Formula 1. The 2026 season is pivotal for Audi as they transition into direct competition in the prestigious motorsport arena.
The sale of a minority stake in Sauber Holding AG to the Qatar Investment Authority stands as a significant development for Audi’s entry into Formula 1. The deal, backed by both Gernot Döllner and Mohammed Al-Sowaidi, underscores a commitment to enhancing the team’s competitive edge ahead of the upcoming season. As Audi prepares to ramp up operations and improve performance, this investment is poised to yield benefits for all parties involved, further invigorating the landscape of professional motorsports.
Original Source: www.gpblog.com
