Porsche's dream of returning to Formula 1 is officially over. According to the company’s motorsport boss, Thomas Laudenbach, the idea of Porsche entering F1 again is now “a closed chapter.”
This decision marks the end of speculation that Porsche might return to the sport after more than three decades since its last stint as an engine supplier for the Footwork Arrows team in 1991.
This announcement is Porsche’s first public comment on F1 since the unveiling of the new 2026 regulations. It follows nearly two years after a potential partnership with Red Bull Racing fell through. That deal could have seen Porsche owning 50% of the team and its powertrain division, which would have been a significant move for the brand.
In September 2022, Porsche still referred to F1 as an “attractive environment,” even as talks with Red Bull fizzled out. However, Laudenbach has now clarified that Formula 1 is “not a topic for us” anymore. He explained, “It is off the table: right now, F1 is not a task for us, and we are not spending any energy on that. We are only focused on what we do right now.”
Why Porsche is steering away from F1
So, why the change of heart? Laudenbach emphasized that Porsche is fully committed to its current motorsport activities, which are already a great match for the brand.
Porsche’s involvement spans from customer racing, like track days and GT4 events, all the way up to professional GT racing with GT3 cars. They also participate in two of the most prestigious endurance racing series, the World Endurance Championship and the IMSA SportsCar Championship, alongside their partner Penske.
Another key area of focus for Porsche is Formula E. Given the growing importance of electrification in their brand strategy, their participation in the all-electric racing series is a natural fit.
Volkswagen, Porsche's parent company, announced in April 2022 that both the Porsche and Audi brands were exploring F1 entries. However, while Audi moved forward with its plans, Porsche’s evaluations focused on a partnership with Red Bull. Unfortunately, that deal fell apart because Porsche sought an “equal footing” in the relationship, something Red Bull wasn’t willing to offer.
Red Bull’s Christian Horner explained the breakdown, citing “strategic non-alignment” and a reluctance to compromise the team’s “values and virtues.” Red Bull has since partnered with Ford for 2026 to brand the new engine being produced by Red Bull Powertrains.
Audi moves forward
Meanwhile, Audi has charged ahead with its F1 ambitions. The German automaker announced its intention to join the sport as an engine supplier in 2026, taking a minority stake in the Sauber team in early 2023. Audi then completed a full takeover of Sauber this spring, making its entry into Formula 1 official.
With a wide range of motorsport commitments and a focus on electric racing, Porsche is staying in its lane, leaving the F1 track to others.
