Beat Zehnder to Exit Audi F1 Team After Nearly Four Decades

Beat Zehnder, a cornerstone of the Hinwil-based operation for nearly four decades, will officially depart the Audi F1 team at the end of the 2026 season. His exit marks the conclusion of one of the longest tenures in the history of the sport, effectively bridging the gap from the early Sauber years to the current Audi works era.

Why it matters:

Zehnder was far more than a manager; he served as the institutional memory of the team. For an organization transitioning from a lean independent outfit to a corporate giant like Audi, the departure of a figure who witnessed every high and low since 1988 represents a significant cultural shift. His exit signals the final step in the team's evolution as it prepares for a major operational restructuring heading into 2027.

The Details:

• Career Evolution: Zehnder joined the organization in 1988 as a sportscar mechanic under founder Peter Sauber, transitioned to F1 in 1993, and ascended to team manager in 1994.
• The Historic Streak: He achieved a staggering 601 consecutive Grand Prix starts, managing the team through its independent years and its stint as a BMW works squad.
• Defining Moment: He was at the helm during the team's pinnacle achievement—Roberto Kubica's victory at the 2008 Canadian Grand Prix.
• Final Role: In his final chapter, Zehnder served as Director of Signature Programs & Operations, where he focused on heritage activities and the development of Audi's new hospitality infrastructure.

What's next:

Zehnder's departure is a strategic component of Audi's broader reorganization. As the team moves further away from its Sauber roots and fully integrates its identity as a works powerhouse, the 2027 season will see a fresh leadership structure take hold in Hinwil to drive the team toward championship contention.