So, bye bye Sauber!
I wonder how AUDI will do, by I will keep my expectations in check, I have known to many flops for far more hyped entries.
It will be probably hard for Audi at least in the 1st year.
If' I'm not mistaken they will use their own engine and it will requires time for innovation.
The good thing about it is that they will can boost the progress with frequents updates.
Same thing will be for Redbull, they will build their or own engine from 2026, without the (official) support from Honda.
Yeah, you’re right, the first year will be tough for Audi. Every time a new constructor comes in with their own power unit, it takes a lot of trial and error before they can compete with the big boys. Even with resources, F1 engines aren’t something you just get right on the first attempt.
But I wouldn’t count them out long term — Audi is a serious brand with a strong history in motorsport, and they won’t come in just to be backmarkers. Frequent updates and learning from mistakes will be their key to catching up.
As for Red Bull, I think their case is a bit more interesting. Without Honda’s *official* support, they’ll have to rely on Red Bull Powertrains, and while they’ve already invested heavily, it’s not guaranteed that they’ll keep their current dominance. We might actually see a more balanced grid in 2026 if both Audi and Red Bull go through early struggles.
In my opinion, the first two seasons will be about survival and adaptation for these teams — after that, we’ll see who really did their homework.