UK-based energy giant BP has become the first official partner of Audi’s Formula 1 future factory team.
The partnership will focus on combining the companies’ expertise in helping the team to excel under the new FIA F1 Technical Regulations that will come into force in 2026. The new regulations will bring ground-breaking developments to the sport, such as lighter, more agile cars with added electrification and sustainable fuel for the main engine.
Under the new partnership, BP will work on developing the sustainable fuel that will be required under the 2026 FIA F1 Technical Regulations, with a key target being at least a 65% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fossil-based petroleum. The Castrol brand will also play a role in developing its advanced grease, lubricant and coolant technology for the team, not just for the V6 turbo engine but also the electric power unit.
BP’s senior vice president for marketing, Nicola Buck, said the company was proud that Castrol and BP had been selected again to collaborate with Audi on their F1 endeavours, with it giving:
“….the opportunity to showcase our technical expertise at the pinnacle of motorsport. We are already making great progress with the Audi F1 Project on the development of the BP fuel and Castrol lubricants as we seek to innovate and unlock maximum engine performance for the Audi F1 Power Unit from 2026.”
BP and Audi have a long history of motorsports collaboration dating back to when the Audi Quattro competed in the World Rally Championship in the 1980s.
