Even in the face of mounting rumours regarding its involvement in Formula 1, Reuters has reported that Audi has categorically denied any interest in an entry into the world’s biggest motorsport.
“This is not a topic for us,” an Audi spokesman said, mirroring CEO Rupert Stadler’s comments on German daily Handlesblatt. The latter ruled out a much-speculated engine deal with Red Bull to replace the uncompetitive Renault mills the former world champions are currently running.
“Formula 1 needs to solve its problems on its own,” Stadler said, alluding to complaints about the cars’ lack of engine noise, as well as Mercedes’ dominance of the sport.
This runs contrary to statements he made just a week ago to Auto Trader, saying that Ingolstadt was open to the idea of an entry into F1. “It’s an option for Audi,” Stadler told the UK publication then. “Not at this moment, perhaps. But it is still an option.”
Ferdinand Piëch’s recent departure as chairman of the Volkswagen Group over a leadership dispute fuelled the long-standing Audi F1 rumours – the grandson of Ferdinand Porsche was reportedly strongly opposed of Formula 1, where budgets of top teams exceed $200 million (RM722 million).
Audi was rumoured to be considering abandoning the German Touring Car Championship (DTM) and Le Mans – despite its successes – and combining both budgets with Red Bull sponsorship to go into Formula One, leaving the two aforementioned series to Porsche.
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