Huge Audi F1 task detailed by team insider

Former F1 driver Allan McNish has spoken out on the challenge awaiting Audi when it joins the grid next year.

The German manufacturer announced its plans several years ago and targeted the 2026 campaign when new technical regulations will come into play.

Audi’s entry is being led by former Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto, while Jonathan Wheatley will join as team principal in April.

It will take over the Sauber-run organisation currently operating as Stake and recently confirmed it had completed its acquisition of Sauber Holding AG.

McNish has had a working relationship with Audi for some time and is involved in many of its motorsport schemes – including the mammoth F1 project.

Binotto has outlined the goal of fighting at the front of the field will take several years to materialise, a timeline McNish agrees with

“It all needs to gel,” McNish told F1.com. 

“You can’t just throw people into a room and expect it all to work. 

“You need to have a blend of youth and experience, energising people and analytical people, and you’ve got to find the right people for the right positions.”

McNish draws comparison to Toyota F1 project

McNish recalled his experience with Toyota in the early 2000s, having raced for the F1 during the 2002 campaign.

The Japanese manufacturer never managed to break into a championship-contending position and bowed out of the sport at the end of 2009.

“At Toyota, I think they struggled a little to do that, because they started from zero on everything,” he said.

“You can always learn from every experience and especially the next experience. 

“If you can just pull in a bit of thought, it guides you in the direction that you should be going. 

“It’s a tough challenge, there’s no tougher place than where we’re heading, but that’s what gets you up in the morning.

“If you don’t like competition, you shouldn’t be in this game.”