Binotto and Wheatley Set Audi's F1 Championship Deadline: By 2030
Audi has set an ambitious target to win an F1 championship by 2030, as confirmed by Mattia Binotto and Jonathan Wheatley. The team, set to rebrand Sauber in 2026, is building on significant performance improvements in 2025, including a podium finish. With a realistic long-term plan and a recently unveiled 2026 car concept, Audi is gearing up to become a major force in Formula 1.
Audi, set to fully transform Sauber into its works team by the 2026 F1 season, has outlined an ambitious goal: to win a championship by 2030. This clear objective, articulated by COO and CTO Mattia Binotto and supported by Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley, signals a determined long-term strategy, acknowledging the immense challenge ahead but reinforcing the team's commitment.
Why it matters:
After years of speculation, Audi's entry as a full works team marks a significant moment for Formula 1, bringing another major automotive giant into the sport. Setting a firm championship target by 2030 demonstrates Audi's serious intent and provides a tangible benchmark for their multi-year investment. This move could reshape the competitive landscape, adding a new force to challenge established teams.
The details:
- Championship Ambition: Mattia Binotto, head of Audi's F1 project, explicitly stated, "We are aiming to win a championship by 2030. That's our ambition, our goal, our objective."
- Realistic Targets: Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley confirmed that the Audi board has provided "very realistic set of targets," understanding the long journey required to build a championship contender. The strategy involves stages of growth, consolidation, and further expansion.
- Building Momentum: Wheatley highlighted the team's recent turnaround in performance. While Sauber scored only 4 points in 2024, the 2025 season has seen a significant improvement, with 62 points and a battle for P6 in the Constructors' Championship.
- Nico Hulkenberg secured the team's first podium since 2012 at the British Grand Prix, marking his maiden F1 rostrum finish.
- 2026 Car Concept Unveiled: Audi recently revealed a livery concept for its 2026 Formula 1 car, showcasing a classic Audi design as preparations accelerate for their debut.
- Leadership Confidence: The clarity of Audi's vision has instilled calm and confidence within the team's leadership, despite acknowledging that overnight success is not expected given the steep climb ahead.
What's next:
The 2026 season will see Sauber officially rebranded as Audi, marking their full entry into Formula 1. The team will continue to build on the momentum gained in 2025, with leadership focused on strategic growth and development to meet the 2030 championship goal. Success will hinge on consistent improvements, strong driver lineups, and overcoming the inherent challenges of F1's complex technical regulations. If Audi can maintain its current trajectory and leverage its significant resources, they could become a formidable force by the end of the decade.