A titan of the Formula 1 paddock, Beat Zehnder, is preparing to close an extraordinary chapter, signaling the true end of an era for the Hinwil-based squad as it transitions into the Audi F1 Team.
Key Points:
- Beat Zehnder will depart the Audi F1 Team (currently Sauber) at the conclusion of the 2026 season.
- He leaves behind an unparalleled 39-year legacy, including a staggering 601 consecutive Grands Prix as team manager.
- Zehnder witnessed Sauber's journey from an independent underdog to a BMW works powerhouse, and now to its future as Audi.
- His departure marks a significant shift, concluding decades of deep institutional knowledge and unwavering dedication.
The Unwavering Backbone of Hinwil
For nearly four decades, Beat Zehnder has been an inseparable part of the team rooted in Hinwil, Switzerland. His journey began in 1988 as a mechanic for founder Peter Sauber's sportscar program. When Sauber made the leap to Formula 1 in 1993, Zehnder was right there, quickly proving himself indispensable.
By 1994, he had ascended to the role of team manager, a position he would hold with remarkable consistency. His incredible run of 601 consecutive Grands Prix is a testament to his dedication, a rare feat in the high-pressure world of F1. Zehnder wasn't just present; he was the hands-on sporting director, navigating the team through every triumph and tribulation.
A Legacy Forged in Highs and Lows
Zehnder's tenure spanned some of Sauber's most memorable periods. He was instrumental during the team's stint as a BMW works squad, a partnership that delivered Hinwil's only Grand Prix victory with Robert Kubica at the 2008 Canadian Grand Prix. He also steered the ship through challenging independent years, always maintaining a relentless competitive spirit.
His role extended far beyond race day strategy; he was a mentor to countless team members and drivers, embodying the spirit of the team through its various guises and ownership changes. Zehnder's presence in the paddock was a constant, a familiar face synonymous with the Hinwil operation.
Passing the Torch to Audi's New Dawn
While he had stepped away from the immediate frontline team manager duties last year, as Sauber began its transformation into the Audi F1 Team, Zehnder remained a vital asset. Most recently, he served as Director Signature Programs & Operations, leading heritage activities and playing a key part in preparing for Audi's new hospitality suite.
Now, at 60 years old, Audi has confirmed that Zehnder will officially depart at the close of 2026. This farewell isn't just a personnel change; it's the final turning of a page as the team fully embraces its new identity and future.
A Fond Farewell from the Team
In a heartfelt statement, the Audi Revolut F1 Team expressed its profound gratitude:
