F1: Audi's New CEO Gernot Dollner Affirms Strong Commitment to Enter Formula 1 in 2026

In 2026, Formula 1 will undergo a major rule reset, and Sauber is getting ready for the German manufacturer with the unveiling of their new identity for the 2024/25 seasons. Although the Swiss team isn't expected to arrive until 2026, rumours have circulated that some drivers could join them for that season. Some have even hinted that they might make the move as early as 2025.

In September, Gernot Dollner succeeded Markus Duesmann as CEO of Audi. The board ousted Duesmann, who was instrumental in acquiring Sauber and developing Audi's power unit, which went towards the company's objective to join Formula 1. In his interview with the German publication Handelsblatt, Audi's new CEO put an end to rumours that the brand may pull out of Formula 1 in 2026.

As per the source, Gernot Dollner conveyed that a definitive decision has been made by the boards of management and supervisory boards of both Audi and Volkswagen, confirming Audi's entry into Formula 1 in 2026. The plan is firmly established.

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F1: Alfa Romeo Team Renamed

Following Alfa Romeo's departure as the title sponsor, Sauber is poised for a strategic shift in the 2024 Formula 1 season. For the next two seasons, the Swiss outfit will undergo a notable identity change, adopting the name "Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber". However, the most substantial transformation is expected in 2026 when the team evolves into Audi's works squad.

Having transitioned from Sauber's co-title partner in 2023 to its sole title partner, Stake has secured complete naming rights. Additionally, the streaming platform Kick has acquired the name rights for the chassis of the 2024 car, a development eagerly revealed by Sauber. Consequently, the collaboration between Stake, Kick, and the Sauber team will solidify with the upcoming model being referred to as the KICK Sauber C44.

Alessandro Alunni Bravi, Sauber Motorsport Team Representative, remarked: "Sauber has always been about innovation, breaking the mould and defying convention. The partnership with Kick.com is the latest and boldest display of the philosophy that drives us. Kick.com is redefining the way live streaming is done and they will adopt the same disruptive approach in the world of Formula 1. With Kick.com, our goal is to make the next step in finding new and innovative ways to get closer to our fans."

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Despite finishing ninth in the constructors' championship after the 2023 season, Sauber is committed to maintaining stability in its driver lineup for the upcoming season. Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu, who have led the charge thus far, will continue to spearhead the team. The impending expiration of both drivers' contracts at the end of the season adds an intriguing dimension to Sauber's driver roster dynamics.

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