Four of the current 24 races are in the Middle East – more than held in the United States. Read more at straitstimes.com.

The Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) has acquired a significant minority stake in Sauber Holding AG, the entity managing Audi's entry into F1

Qatar's long-term investment in the future Audi Formula One team, announced at the country's grand prix on Friday, brings obvious benefits for both and increases the Gulf region's influence in the sport.

A statement from the German car company said the Gulf state would buy a “significant minority” in the team, which is entering F1 in 2026. The deal will be completed next year, after Audi has taken full ownership of the Sauber team that is the basis for its entry.

Qatar is buying a significant minority stake in Audi's Formula One team, the Gulf country's estimated $510 billion sovereign wealth fund and the German carmaker said on Friday. The holding will be almost a third of the team,

The Qatar Investment Authority is buying a stake in the Audi Formula One racing team, joining other Gulf sovereign funds who have been channeling their vast wealth into global sports franchises.

The Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) announced that it had acquired a significant minority stake in Sauber Holding AG, which will become Audi’s F1 factory team in 2026.