Beat Zehnder to Depart Audi After Nearly Four Decades of Service

Beat Zehnder, a cornerstone of the Hinwil-based operation for nearly four decades, is set to depart Audi at the conclusion of the 2026 season. His exit marks the end of an era for one of the most enduring figures in the Formula 1 paddock, signaling a definitive transition as the team fully integrates into the Audi corporate identity.

Why it matters:

Zehnder represents the institutional memory of the team. Having been present from the very first day the F1 doors opened in 1993, his departure is more than just a personnel change—it is a symbolic shift. As Audi continues to overhaul its operations, removing the "old guard" is a necessary, albeit poignant, step in restructuring for the 2027 season to ensure the team is lean and aligned with the manufacturer's long-term vision.

The Details:

• Unparalleled Longevity: Zehnder joined Sauber Motorsport in 1988, contributing to the sportscar program's success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the World Sportscar Championship before the team transitioned to F1.
• Paddock Stalwart: After stepping into the Team Manager role in 1994, he oversaw a staggering 601 consecutive Grands Prix, providing a rare level of stability in a volatile sport.
• Elite Collaborations: Throughout his tenure, he managed a diverse roster of elite talent, including world champions Kimi Raikkonen and Sebastian Vettel, as well as race winners like Charles Leclerc and Sergio Perez.
• The Audi Transition: Following Audi's acquisition of the team, Zehnder transitioned from day-to-day team management to a strategic factory role as Director of Signature Programs and Operations, focusing on the brand's heritage activities.

What's next:

Zehnder's exit is a direct result of Audi's operational restructuring ahead of 2027. While his professionalism and competitive drive will be missed in Hinwil, the move clears the way for a new leadership structure fully aligned with Audi's factory objectives. The team now faces the challenge of replacing nearly 40 years of experience with a modern management framework as they push for championship contention.