Audi announce simulator driver for F1 project

Audi have announced their new simulator driver for their Formula One project before they officially enter the sport in 2026. Neel Jani, a former test and reserve driver for Red Bull and a winner of the FIA World Endurance Championship and Le Mans, is set to join the team. 

Audi will be joining Formula One in 2026, buying the Sauber works team. They will also build their own power unit. Not only does Jani have F1 experience, he has also driven in Formula E and GP2. His experience will also help Audi with the power unit development. 

Speaking about his new role, Jani stated:

“I am delighted to accompany Audi on their way into Formula 1. It is both an honour and a great responsibility to be involved in a project of this magnitude at an early stage. I am sure that with my experience from Formula 1 and [sportscar] projects I can forge good links between theory and practice.“

Oliver Hoffman, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development of Audi AG, said:

“Just like in production development, simulation plays a major role in our Formula 1 project. Our simulator is an important tool for the power unit development. It requires a development driver who, in addition to a grasp of technology, brings versatile experience to the project, especially in terms of energy management in racing conditions.“

Adam Baker, CEO of Audi Formula Racing GmbH, added:

“At the moment, we are mainly focused on fundamental concept questions with high relevance to performance. However, in evaluating various technical solutions we rely not only on digital methods. Know-how, experience and practically relevant development are indispensable elements of drawing the right conclusions from the simulation.

“With that combination, we can assess various operating strategies at an early stage and pave the way for efficient energy management of the power unit.“