Audi has stated several times that it intended to participate in Formula One, and most of us supposed it would be possible by acquiring McLaren’s motorsports division. However, it now looks like the deal between the two automakers fell through.
According to Reuters, McLaren found the offer made by Audi insufficient and declined the merger. Audi continues negotiation with other racing teams now.
A source close to the two automakers reported that the two parties involved had wildly different price expectations, to the point that further negotiations became pointless. Earlier reports mentioned Audi offering up to €650,000,000 to McLaren for its motorsports department.
The German automaker is still in talks with a number of other companies, notably including Alfa Romeo and Williams. It also doesn’t rule out the possibility of teaming up with Aston Martin.
Porsche is another example of a Volkswagen Group brand determined to come back to Formula One. To this end, the company is considering singing an engine supply contract with Red Bull Racing.
Herbert Diess, CEO of VW Group, personally confirmed the determination of both marques to participate in the F1. He opined that the coming changes to the racing regulations would make it easier for new companies to participate in the famous racing championship. The specifics remain unclear, though. As for Audi, the automaker has a decent amount of racing experience in the Formula E (see the gallery and the video).