Audi Solidifies Long-Term Partnership with Öhlins for F1 Era

Audi has formalized its relationship with Swedish suspension specialist Öhlins, naming the company as its official supplier for its debut Formula 1 campaign. This partnership follows an intensive joint development program focused on engineering and damper performance that began well before the team hit the track in March.

Why it matters:

Suspension is a critical, yet often overlooked, component of chassis dynamics. For a new entry like Audi, leveraging a partner with a proven track record in high-downforce environments is essential to closing the gap with established frontrunners. This move ensures that the Audi Revolut F1 Team has a reliable technical foundation as they navigate the steep learning curve of their first season.

The Details:

• Historical Synergy: The partnership is a revival of a dominant era; Audi and Öhlins secured 13 overall wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans between 1999 and 2016.
• Broad Experience: Beyond endurance racing, Öhlins provided critical damper technology for Audi's DTM program, including the A4 DTM introduced in 2004.
• Corporate Evolution: Öhlins became part of the Brembo Group in January 2025, potentially opening further synergies in braking and chassis integration.
• Technical Focus: The collaboration focuses on engineering, rigorous testing, and optimizing damper performance to handle the unique loads of 2026-spec F1 cars.

The Big Picture:

As the 2026 season progresses, the stability of technical partnerships becomes paramount. By formalizing this deal, Audi is not just procuring components but integrating a legacy of winning into its F1 DNA. This synergy mirrors the tight-knit technical alliances seen in the top teams, prioritizing long-term development and reliability over short-term fixes.

What's next:

With the season moving toward its final stages, the focus shifts to how these suspension refinements will translate into the 2027 car. The groundwork laid by Öhlins will be pivotal as Audi seeks to evolve its chassis to be more competitive against the established powerhouses of the grid.