Audi and bp have announced a comprehensive partnership as Audi gears up for its highly expected entry into Formula 1 for 2026. Set against the backdrop of new FIA F1 Technical Regulations that emphasize enhanced electrification and the use of Advanced Sustainable fuel, aiming to redefine the future of motorsport.
Audi, eminent for its dedication to advanced technology, and bp, a leader in the energy sector, are combining their extensive technical expertise to innovate and excel in the demanding world of Formula 1. This partnership represents a mutual goal for sustainability and high performance, with both companies aiming to make major contributions to the sport’s evolution.
For nearly two years, Audi and bp have co-engineered fuels and lubricants designed to maximize the performance of the Audi F1 Power Unit. This collaborative effort proves crucial as the sport transitions to more sustainable practices. The development of the FIA-defined Advanced Sustainable fuel, which requires a greenhouse gas emissions reduction of at least 65% compared to fossil-derived petrol, stands as a centerpiece of their work.
bp will supply Audi with various specialized Castrol lubricants, including the advanced Castrol EDGE engine oil and Castrol ON EV fluids for electrical components. These products ensure the Audi F1 Power Unit performs at its highest efficiency and reliability, meeting the rigorous demands of Formula 1 racing.
Beyond technical collaboration, bp will become the first official partner of the future Audi factory team, with a long-term sponsorship deal. This agreement includes comprehensive marketing and branding rights for bp, Castrol, and Aral, bp’s leading fuel and retail brand in Germany. This sponsorship bolsters the visibility and reach of bp’s premium brands within the highly competitive Formula 1 arena.
Audi and bp’s partnership builds on a storied history of collaboration in motorsport, dating back to the 1980s with the World Rally Championship and extending through various prestigious series such as the FIA World Endurance Championship, Le Mans 24 Hours, and the DTM race series. This legacy of success is poised to continue in Formula 1, leveraging the proven performance of Castrol lubricants and Aral high-performance fuels.
Andreas Seidl, CEO Audi F1 team, emphasized the strategic alignment between Audi and bp: “Audi and bp have always worked together successfully in motorsport. We are delighted that we can take this special partnership to the next level in Formula 1. This is a perfect match. It is a strong signal for Audi’s future F1 factory team that we have been able to establish this partnership at such an early stage.”
Nicola Buck, SVP marketing, bp, expressed pride in the renewed partnership: “We are already making great progress with the Audi F1 Project on the development of the bp fuel and Castrol lubricants as we seek to innovate and unlock maximum engine performance for the Audi F1 Power Unit from 2026.”
Adam Baker, CEO Audi Formula Racing GmbH, highlighted the importance of early collaboration: The combustion process is highly complex and can only be optimized by developing the engine in combination with the fuel properties. That’s why at Audi Formula Racing, where we are well advanced with Audi’s F1 power unit development, we use all three single-cylinder test benches allowed by the FIA regulations intensively for fuel development.”
TOP CARS | 2025 Subaru BRZ: Sport Button, New Features, and Great Prices
