Audi and BP have announced a major new strategic partnership in Formula 1, marking Audi’s entry into the sport in 2026 with a focus on pioneering sustainable technologies and performance innovation. This collaboration combines Audi’s engineering prowess with BP’s expertise in advanced fuels and lubricants to drive the future of motorsport.
The partnership will see BP and its specialist lubricants division, Castrol, play a critical role in Audi’s Formula 1 ambitions. For nearly two years, the companies have been co-engineering BP’s fuels and Castrol’s lubricants to ensure optimal performance from Audi’s F1 Power Unit. Central to their collaboration is the development of the FIA-defined Advanced Sustainable fuel, which must achieve at least a 65% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil-derived petrol starting from 2026.
BP will supply Audi with a suite of bespoke Castrol products, including Castrol EDGE, the company’s most advanced engine oil, designed specifically for the V6 turbo engine. Additionally, Castrol ON EV fluids will be used to enhance the electrical components of the Audi F1 Power Unit.
Further strengthening their alliance, BP will also become the first official partner of the future Audi F1 factory team, which will include comprehensive marketing and branding rights for BP, Castrol, and Aral, BP’s leading fuel and retail brand in Germany.
Audi and BP have a storied history in motorsport, dating back to the 1980s when Castrol products helped Audi win in the World Rally Championship with the Audi quattro. Their collaboration continued through various championships, including the FIA World Endurance Championship, Le Mans 24 Hours, FIA World Rallycross Championship, FIA Formula E World Championship, and the DTM race series, where Castrol lubricants and Aral’s high-performance fuels were pivotal.
Andreas Seidl, CEO of the Audi F1 team, commented on the new partnership: “Audi and BP have a long history of successful collaboration in motorsport. We are thrilled to elevate this partnership to new heights in Formula 1. Audi’s commitment to ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ aligns perfectly with BP and Castrol’s pursuit of technological excellence. This partnership is a significant step for our future F1 factory team, reflecting the strong interest and support for the Audi F1 Project.”
Nicola Buck, Senior Vice President of Marketing at BP, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: “We are honored that Audi has chosen BP and Castrol for their Formula 1 entry. This partnership provides an excellent platform for showcasing our technical expertise at the highest level of motorsport. We are making great strides in developing BP fuels and Castrol lubricants to maximize engine performance for the Audi F1 Power Unit.”
Adam Baker, CEO of Audi Formula Racing GmbH, highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership: “The competition in sustainable fuels will be intense from 2026, making our early start in fuel testing with BP crucial. The complexity of the combustion process necessitates a close partnership to optimize engine performance. We are confident that our collaboration with BP and Castrol positions us strongly for the 2026 season.”
As Audi gears up for its entry into Formula 1, the partnership with BP and Castrol signifies a bold step towards integrating cutting-edge technology and sustainability into the heart of competitive motorsport.
