VW boss Diess reveals: This is how Porsche and Audi entered Formula 1

Created: 05/02/2022 15:37

By: Michael Haug

Herbert Diess talks about the Volkswagen Group's Formula 1 plans © Jan Huebner/Taeger/imago

Volkswagen boss Herbert Diess confirms: Audi and Porsche want to get into Formula 1!

Especially at Porsche, the entry is “very concrete”.

Wolfsburg – There has long been speculation about Porsche and Audi entering Formula 1.

VW has already given the green light, but wanted to wait for the announcement of the regulations from 2026.

It now seems clear: cars are getting smaller and slower, but petrol is becoming 100% sustainable.

In direct dialogue with journalists and citizens, VW boss Herbert Diess has now confirmed the intentions of the "premium brands" Audi and Porsche to enter Formula 1.

"It's very specific at Porsche, but not so much at Audi," said the 63-year-old Austrian.

Porsche and Audi want to stir up Formula 1: "It's not about people realizing themselves"

Porsche and Audi, which are part of the Volkswagen Group, have a chance to get started “through technical rule changes,” explains Diess.

The former BMW board member then mentions the electrification of Formula 1, as well as the use of synthetic fuels.

"Formula 1 is becoming more environmentally friendly," he sums up.

"It's not about people realizing themselves and wanting to drive Formula 1," reveals Diess.

Another fact may have played a major role.

"Formula 1 is growing worldwide," says the VW boss.

The Netflix documentary "Formula 1: Drive to Survive" has led to growth in the USA, and interest is also growing in Asia.

Formula 1: What are the specific plans of Porsche and Audi?

However, getting started was not always so clear, there was disagreement on the board.

"Actually, we have enough to do," says Diess.

"But the premium brands see Formula 1 as an important lever to increase brand value," adds the VW boss.

Audi also wants to appeal to new customers in higher price ranges.

The plan to develop a common engine was therefore rejected.

"Both have started to develop engines," announces Diess.

Running a complete factory team in Germany is considered difficult due to the bureaucratic hurdles.

It is an open secret that Porsche wants to take over 50% of the team's shares in Red Bull Racing.

Audi is still looking for a partner.

Aston Martin, Sauber and Williams are traded.

Formula 1: will there soon be another Grand Prix in Germany?

If Volkswagen boss Diess has his way, there could soon be a German Formula 1 Grand Prix again.

"In general, the races belong in the big car nations, not just in Bahrain," says the family man.

There will also be more Germany in Formula 1 elsewhere.

Diess announces that German drivers are wanted in both teams.

At the moment there are only two German drivers in Formula 1.

Mick Schumacher starts for the Haas racing team, Sebastian Vettel drives for Aston Martin.

Your next race will be on May 8th.

held in Miami.

The inaugural race in southern Florida starts at 9:30 p.m.

All Formula 1 broadcast times can be found here.