Audi has officially announced that former team manager Beat Zehnder is set to depart the organization at the end of the 2026 Formula 1 season. This decision concludes a remarkable 34-year stint for Zehnder at the Hinwil facility, where he has been a central figure through various eras of the team's history.
Zehnder's journey with the outfit began in 1988 when founder Peter Sauber hired him as a mechanic for its sportscar programme. He transitioned to Formula 1 alongside the team at the start of the 1993 season, quickly becoming an integral part of the Swiss operation. Promoted to team manager the following year, Zehnder oversaw 601 consecutive grands prix, guiding the squad through its periods as an independent entity and later as a BMW works team.
During his tenure in hands-on roles as both team manager and sporting director, Zehnder witnessed the team's many highs and lows. His leadership spanned the era that produced Hinwil's only grand prix victory, achieved by Robert Kubica at the 2008 Canadian Grand Prix. After 33 years in operational management, Zehnder stepped away from his primary duties last year as Sauber prepared for its transformation into an Audi works operation.
In his most recent capacity, Zehnder led the team's heritage activities as Director of Signature Programs & Operations. This role included overseeing preparation work for Audi's new hospitality suite, and he remained a visible presence at races despite having reduced operational responsibilities. Now, at 60 years old, the team has confirmed his departure will take place in December 2026.
In a statement released on Friday, the Audi Revolut F1 Team expressed sincere gratitude for Zehnder's contributions, noting that his exit follows a restructuring of operations ahead of the 2027 season. The team highlighted that he served as a mentor to hundreds of drivers and team members over the years, maintaining professionalism and a competitive spirit throughout his career.
The organization thanked him for 39 years of outstanding service, which includes 36 World Sportscar Championship races and 601 consecutive Formula 1 races. As he prepares to leave, Zehnder is recognized as a legendary figure in F1 race team management, having recently discussed his storied career with Autosport last year.
Sources: Autosport.