Mattia Binotto: Audi will have a ‘recovery gap’ from its F1 engine

Sauber Motorsport boss Mattia Binotto has admitted that Audi is prepared for an initial “recovery gap” after its debut as a Formula 1 power unit manufacturer in 2026.

Audi will make its long-awaited maiden venture in the series after taking over the current Sauber-led team following the introduction of new technical regulations.

The German marque will be looking to use a rule reset to revive Sauber’s struggling prospects as the Hinwil-based outfit sit bottom with zero points this season.

Audi, however, faces a difficult task to keep its feet on the ground as it has also committed to developing its own engine rather than remaining a customer.

However, Binotto, who was appointed in August to oversee Audi’s upcoming market entry, revealed that the Ingolstadt-based brand’s plans are progressing as expected.

“I have been visiting Neuberg in recent days and weeks,” Binotto said.

“The engine runs well, it works on the dynamometer, I have already traveled several long distances.”

Binotto expects Audi to lag behind

However, although engine regulations will change in 2026, Binotto admitted that Audi will lag behind existing established suppliers.

“I think it’s a learning process here as well. We compete with other organizations where producers have their headquarters,” he admitted.

“Certainly this whole experience is very important and important.

“So, although I think the organization (at Audi) is great, the facilities are great, the programs are in place, there is still a lot to learn.

“So initially I expect I will have a break to make up. How big it will be, I guess we will never know.

Audi’s PU deficit is not clear

However, the former Ferrari team principal admitted that the margin Audi needs to eliminate on the powertrain side will not become clear until his car takes to the track.

“Only until we are on the right path that we can only understand. But we have had over a year since then,” he explained.

“We are putting together an intense dyno program and our job will be to make sure we can execute on that, getting as fast as we can but at the same time trying to be as competitive as possible in early 2026. “

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