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Audi confirmed on Friday that veteran motorsport figure Beat Zehnder will depart the Hinwil-based Formula 1 organisation at the conclusion of the 2026 season. The German manufacturer announced that the 60-year-old Swiss stalwart is scheduled to leave at the end of December 2026, with his exit occurring in connection with an internal operational restructuring before the 2027 championship campaign. His departure concludes a 39-year tenure representing the squad across multiple ownership eras and sporting transformations.
From Sports Cars to Formula 1 Manager
Zehnder originally joined the outfit in 1988, when it operated under the Sauber name, initially working as a mechanic within its sports car programme. During that initial phase, his duties included participation across 36 World Sportscar Championship races. He subsequently transitioned alongside the operation into Formula 1 at the beginning of the 1993 season, establishing himself rapidly as an essential squad member before earning promotion to team manager one year later.
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601 Consecutive Races and Changing Team Eras
In that managerial role, Zehnder attended 601 consecutive Formula 1 Grands Prix. Over decades with the Hinwil organisation, he oversaw sporting affairs and remained intimately involved in day-to-day team functions. Throughout that extended period, the entity navigated several structural changes and naming identities, competing as an independent privateer, running as the BMW works team, and later racing under Alfa Romeo branding prior to its current status as Audi.
Historic Montreal Victory with Kubica
During that journey, Zehnder witnessed the most significant moments in Sauber history, including the only Formula 1 race win connected with the Hinwil facility. That triumph occurred at the 2008 Canadian Grand Prix, where Robert Kubica took victory for BMW Sauber. Zehnder formed a particularly close relationship with the Polish driver at the time, and the pair reunited years later when Kubica served as reserve driver between 2020 and 2022 during the squad's Alfa Romeo era.
Operational Shift Ahead of Audi Works Era
After 33 years working as team manager, Zehnder stepped down from that role in 2025 as Sauber prepared to transform into the Audi factory team. In the recent period, the Swiss director oversaw heritage activities as director of key programs and operations. His responsibilities included preparations for opening Audi's new hospitality area, alongside ongoing appearances at selected race weekends.
Audi Tribute to Dedicated Mentor
In a statement issued on Friday, Audi offered sincere thanks to Zehnder, describing him as a mentor to hundreds of team members and drivers who passed through Hinwil over the years. The manufacturer noted that throughout his career he experienced both highs and difficult moments associated with operating in a demanding sport, highlighting his sustained professionalism, competitive ambition, and desire to win. Audi also commended his career total of 36 World Sportscar Championship appearances and 601 consecutive Formula 1 starts, thanking him for 39 years of service and wishing him success in the future.
Sources: Odnosił sukcesy z Kubicą. Legenda żegna zespół F1 po 39 latach.
