Porsche has officially ended its pursuit of a Formula 1 return, according to motorsport boss Thomas Laudenbach. The announcement marks a decisive departure from the brand's previous interest in the pinnacle of motorsport.
The German automaker had been in discussions with Red Bull Racing about a potential 50% ownership stake and a joint powertrain development for the 2026 season. However, the partnership fell through in 2022 due to disagreements over the terms of the deal.
Despite expressing interest in F1 as recently as September 2022, Porsche has now unequivocally stated that a return is not on the cards. Laudenbach emphasized that the company is fully focused on its current motorsport commitments.
Porsche's motorsport portfolio includes a strong presence in customer racing, with programs ranging from track days to the highly competitive GT3 category. The brand is also a major player in endurance racing, competing in the World Endurance Championship and IMSA SportsCar Championship with its 963 LMDh. Additionally, Porsche is committed to Formula E as part of its electrification strategy.
Laudenbach described Porsche's current motorsport involvement as a "perfect fit" for the brand, emphasizing the breadth and diversity of its racing programs. The decision to forego F1 allows the company to concentrate its resources on these established areas.
While Porsche and its sister brand Audi explored F1 entries in 2022, Audi has since secured a majority stake in the Sauber Formula 1 team, rebranded as Alfa Romeo. This leaves Porsche as the only Volkswagen Group brand without a direct presence in Formula 1.
Porsche's history in F1 is marked by success, including a world championship victory in 1962 and three consecutive constructors' titles in the 1980s as an engine supplier to McLaren. However, the brand's current strategic focus lies elsewhere.
With this definitive statement, Porsche closes a chapter on its potential Formula 1 comeback and solidifies its position as a leading force in other forms of motorsport.
