This week Audi launched a driver development programme to identify and nurture drivers from karting through the single‑seater ladder and offer a pathway to F1. The initiative was announced alongside the unveiling of Audi’s F1 car, the R26, and forms part of a five‑year plan, following Audi’s acquisition of Sauber, aimed at winning a world championship by 2030.

Former F1 driver and three‑time Le Mans winner Allan McNish will lead the programme, bringing experience from sportscar racing and senior management roles within Audi.

Audi said the programme will give prospects access to the company’s technical resources, engineers and specialists, and will provide training in engineering, human performance, media and marketing. The aim is to embed young drivers in Audi’s technical and operational culture and to prioritise resilience, intelligence and a team‑driven mindset alongside raw speed.

Team principal Jonathan Wheatley described the initiative as a key pillar of Audi’s long‑term F1 strategy and part of its vision toward 2030.

The move places Audi alongside other works‑run talent systems such as Red Bull, Alpine and McLaren — programmes that have produced champions including Sebastian Vettel, Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso. Audi acknowledged that building and maintaining such a pipeline requires significant investment and carries risk, but framed the programme as evidence of a sustained commitment to building a competitive, sustainable F1 team.

Sources