With Audi and Porsche poised to confirm their F1 participations for 2026 once new rules are settled, the focus has been on how the two German carmakers will secure their spots on the grid.
While it looks increasingly likely that Porsche will join forces with Red Bull and utilize the team’s new powertrains division, Audi’s route is yet to be finalized.
It is understood these were advanced talks with McLaren over a possible takeover, but sources suggest these talks have stalled as the two parties disagreed that the deal was progressing in a way which is suitable for both parties.
But while the odds of a McLaren partnership appear to be dwindling, there remain other options Audi is considering.
Williams is open to a manufacturer commitment, while sources have indicated talks have been held with Aston Martin for a longer-term partnership.
With Aston Martin’s progress in F1 faltering since its renaming early last year, questions have already surfaced about what it will take for the squad to be able to challenge near the front lines, as owner Lawrence Stroll desires.
An Audi partnership, either jointly or as a full buyout, could offer the team a chance to secure a boost – or even give Stroll a way out of Formula 1 if the team hasn’t progressed well enough.
Earlier this year, Aston Martin hinted that it was considering building its own powerplant for the 2026 rules – a project that seems unable to keep up with its current technical capabilities.
However, working with a major manufacturer like Audi would be logical to get the necessary budget and technical know-how.
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When approached by Motorsport.com regarding speculation about a partnership with Audi, Aston Martin was close to denying the possibility.
An Aston Martin spokesman said: “We are pleased with our current power unit partner Mercedes-Benz, with whom we have been under contract for a number of years. The Mercedes-Benz F1 engine is good.
“We currently have no alternative plans – but never say never in Formula 1 and we are actively evaluating options with our new strategic partner Aramco.”
A statement from Audi and Porsche on Thursday after a board meeting said a final call for their entries into F1 would be made once the new regulations were issued by the FIA.
It said: “We have not made a decision yet as we are currently in the final evaluation phase. At this point in time, the new regulations for 2026 and the following years are not yet available.
“These will envisage far-reaching changes to make the sport more sustainable, which is a prerequisite for Audi’s possible entry.”
A significant complication of a potential deal is that one of Audi’s main German competitors, Mercedes-Benz, has a 20 percent stake in road car company Aston Martin.