Audi's F1 Ambitions Skyrocket: Stefano Sordo Joins Sauber as Performance Director
Sauber has taken a formidable step towards its transformation into Audi's debut Formula One team by appointing Stefano Sordo as its new Performance Director. With a long and illustrious background in motorsport, Sordo is set to add a critical edge to their competitive prowess.
New Technical Regulations, New Opportunities
As Audi prepares to join the illustrious ranks of Formula One teams in 2026, the timing could not be better for Sauber to ramp up its preparations. The newly released technical regulations are primed to introduce unprecedented challenges and opportunities. Audi is set to venture into the sport as a works entrant, marking an ambitious entry strategy that aligns perfectly with Sauber's aims and aspirations.
Helping Hands From Formula One Veterans
Stefano Sordo carries a wealth of experience from his previous stints at titans like McLaren and Red Bull, where he tasted championship glory. His most recent role as Technical Director at RLL Racing in the United States saw him continue his impressive run of form. Now, his return to Formula One marks a pivotal moment for Sauber's transition into Audi.
“I am delighted to join the Sauber F1 team and take on a role that will have a direct impact on unlocking the performance we already have within our company,” Sordo said. “The team is at a crucial juncture in its history, with the start of the Audi adventure just around the corner, and I am looking forward to tackling the challenge that lies ahead.”
With the stakes soaring high, both Sauber and Audi couldn’t be more thrilled to have Sordo on board. His seasoned perspective is exactly what the development team needs as they navigate these transformative years.
A Turbulent Start Overcome By Optimism
The start of the season has indeed been challenging for Sauber with the introduction of their overhauled C44 car, which has yet to deliver a point in the first nine races. Designed by Technical Director James Key, the car’s performance has been enigmatic. Key, however, sees immense potential in the team’s future, spurred by Sordo’s entry.
“As our Technical Departments continue to grow towards our new organization and future ambitions, I am delighted to welcome Stefano to the team as Performance Director,” Key stated. “Stefano is a key addition to our team, one which will shape our understanding and priorities for the new cars’ performance direction and in-season development.”
Setting the Stage for Audi's Arrival
Andreas Seidl, the CEO of Sauber Group, echoed these sentiments by highlighting the strategic importance of Sordo’s appointment. “The appointment of Stefano is an important step in the development of the structure of our technical department,” Seidl commented. “Stefano knows what a winning squad needs, brings a wealth of experience to the team, and with the different array of roles he played in the past, he is perfectly placed to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of our technical operations and address what is required.”
Seidl further emphasized the cohesive strength in the Hinwil-based technical team and how Sordo’s insights will transform their capabilities into tangible performance.
In a sport that demands relentless precision and innovation, the merging of Sauber’s seasoned expertise and Audi’s fresh ambitions spell out intriguing possibilities for the future. If anyone can steer these aspirations into reality, it’s Stefano Sordo. The 2026 season promises to be an electrifying campaign, with Sordo's influence shining brightly on the horizon.