Formula 1: The rise and fall of Porsche possibly joining the grid
The hopes of Porsche joining Formula 1 in 2026 have now been diminished, as the renowned company failed to come to a deal with an existing team.
Porsche and their German compatriot, Audi, were looking to join the Formula 1 grid in 2026. Unfortunately for the former, it will be unattainable for them in the near future, as they failed to strike a deal.
They had their sights set on purchasing a majority stake in a current team on the grid, rather than starting a whole new team from scratch. In the end, it would be more beneficial for them financially and for the sake of inventory.
This could have been a very interesting move, given how the engine rules for the 2026 season seemed rather enticing for Porsche. The teams on the grid, however, looked to maintain their independence, despite what they would be offering.
Last year, Porsche had been in serious talks with Red Bull in an effort to officially join the Formula 1 grid.
An agreement was just on the horizon between the two; it was just small details that led to the deal ultimately breaking down. Porsche wanted a larger stake in the team for what they were offering, but Red Bull wanted to maintain their independence and portion of the stake.
No other team on the grid had any interest in Porsche joining with a larger stake, and it led to the German manufacturer ultimately backing out of Formula 1 for 2026. In a sense, Porsche were being a bit too greedy in comparison to Audi, and they did not have that same level of patience.
While Porsche not joining the grid in 2026 is a bit of a blow to Formula 1, there is no saying that they can’t look to join the grid in later years, as their presence would still be welcomed.
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But for the time being, Porsche will be monitoring how things go in Formula 1 and shift their focus to other motorsports in which they are involved, such as Formula E, the World Endurance Championship, 911 GT3 Cup, among others.