Audi honors F1 veteran Beat Zehnder as he prepares to depart.
The Audi Formula 1 team has revealed that former team manager Beat Zehnder will be departing the organization at the conclusion of the 2026 season, marking the end of a remarkable 34-year tenure in Hinwil.
Zehnder was brought on board by founder Peter Sauber in 1988 as a mechanic for the sportscar program and transitioned to F1 alongside Sauber at the start of the 1993 season, quickly establishing himself as a crucial figure within the Swiss team.
The following year, he ascended to the role of team manager, overseeing 601 consecutive Grand Prix events. In his active capacity as team manager and sporting director, Zehnder was central to Sauber's numerous triumphs and setbacks, spanning its time as an independent entity and its period as a BMW works team, which produced Hinwil's sole Grand Prix victory with Roberto Kubica at the 2008 Canadian Grand Prix.
After 33 years, Zehnder stepped back last year as Sauber geared up for its evolution into the Audi works team.
Most recently, he directed the team’s heritage initiatives as Director of Signature Programs & Operations, which included the groundwork for Audi's new hospitality suite, and he was still occasionally spotted at races.
However, Audi has now confirmed that the 60-year-old is set to leave the team at the year's end.
Charles Leclerc, Sauber celebrates tenth place with Beat Zehnder, Sauber Manager
"Audi Revolut F1 Team expresses its heartfelt gratitude to Beat Zehnder, who will conclude his time with the team at the end of December 2026 following the restructuring of its operations in preparation for the 2027 season," the team stated in a press release on Friday.
"Beat has served as a mentor to countless team members and drivers who have been part of Hinwil over the years.
"Throughout his career, he experienced both the highs and lows of competing in such a challenging sport, maintaining his professionalism, unwavering competitive spirit, and ambition to triumph. He retires having participated in 36 World Sportscar Championship races and 601 consecutive Formula 1 races.
"We are grateful for 39 years of exceptional service and extend our best wishes for his future endeavors."
To commemorate the conclusion of his illustrious career as an F1 race team manager, Zehnder shared insights with Motorsport.com last year about his remarkable journey and experiences with one of F1's last independent teams.
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