German car manufacturer, Audi, has responded to ongoing rumours about a potential entry to Formula One by collaborating with Red Bull.
Audi was linked to the sport with the exit of Honda as an engine supplier at the end of this season.
However, until regulation changes come into force, Red Bull is planning to bring the Honda operation in-house by acquiring the company’s intellectual property.
The UK-based team revealed plans for an engine shop on the grounds of its Milton Keynes home, to be named Red Bull Powertrains, after the project was given the green light.
Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko explained: “One of our existing buildings is being adapted into an engine shop.
“This engine shop is technically designed in such a way that the development – provided it stays within the scope that is envisaged – for the new engine regulations could be carried out there.
“It is a one-time investment in the building and, above all, in the test benches. But the running costs will not be so much higher than if we had bought an engine somewhere [else].
“It costs more, but not significantly more.”
However, as rumours began to mount online, now Audi has rejected claims that they are considering becoming involved with F1.
RTL previously reported that a spokesperson said these plans were not brought to their attention “in my drawer for 10 years” and that “at the moment we are not dealing with Formula 1”.
It was also revealed that Audi’s motorsport strategy over the next 10 years is already mapped out and that “Formula 1 does not appear in it”.
