Audi and Cadillac represent Formula 1's newest manufacturers in 2026, entering with championship ambitions but vastly different approaches. Audi acquired Sauber with a five-year target to become F1's most successful team, while Cadillac built a new entry from scratch after overcoming political resistance to join the grid.

Audi faced challenges transforming Sauber, replacing leadership multiple times before finding stability with Mattia Binotto and Jonathan Wheatley. Cadillac's path involved reconfiguring their original Andretti bid after rejection, ultimately securing Ferrari engines while preparing for their own power unit in 2029. Both teams were drawn by new hybrid engine rules.

Early indications suggest Audi sits in midfield competition with Haas and Alpine, while Cadillac remains in development phase. Driver lineups feature established names like Nico Hülkenberg and Valtteri Bottas, with Audi showing immediate promise despite acknowledging substantial room for improvement.