Qatar's long-term investment in the future Audi Formula One team, announced at the country's grand prix on Friday, brings obvious benefits for both and increases the Gulf region's influence in the sport.

Being an F1 team owner is a lucrative business so it is no surprise to see owners from all around the world get involved.

Audi has sold a stake in its Formula One team to Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund ahead of the German manufacturer’s entry to the sport in 2026. Audi announced on Friday ahead of this weekend’s Qatar Grand Prix that the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) had acquired a “significant minority stake” in the team,

Qatar's sovereign wealth fund, QIA, has invested in Audi's Formula 1 team, providing significant capital to accelerate its 2026 entry.

The Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) announced that it had acquired a significant minority stake in Sauber Holding AG, which will become Audi’s F1 factory team in 2026.

Audi's Formula 1 venture will be backed by the Qatar Investment Authority giving the Swiss team much needed financial backing ahead of it's debut in 2026.

Four of the current 24 races are in the Middle East – more than held in the United States. Read more at straitstimes.com.

Qatar is buying a significant minority stake in Audi's Formula One team, the Gulf country's estimated $510 billion sovereign wealth fund and the German carmaker said on Friday. The holding will be almost a third of the team,

A statement from the German car company said the Gulf state would buy a “significant minority” in the team, which is entering F1 in 2026. The deal will be completed next year, after Audi has taken full ownership of the Sauber team that is the basis for its entry.

The Qatar Investment Authority is buying a stake in the Audi Formula One racing team, joining other Gulf sovereign funds who have been channeling their vast wealth into global sports franchises.