The sovereign wealth fund of Qatar is acquiring a “significant minority stake” in what will become Audi's works Formula 1 team from 2026, in a deal announced Friday ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix. A joint statement said the Qatar Investment Authority will be “a long-term investor and partner” and provide “a substantial capital injection” that will help the team expand its infrastructure.

Audi is to sell a stake in its Formula 1 entry to Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund, QIA. A statement from the German car company said the Gulf state would buy a “significant minority” in the team, which is entering F1 in 2026. The deal will be completed next year, after Audi has taken full ownership of the Sauber team that is the basis for its entry.

The Qatar Investment Authority is buying a stake in the Audi Formula One racing team, joining other Gulf sovereign funds who have been channeling their vast wealth into global sports franchises.