Adidas and Puma Vie for Audi’s Formula 1 Apparel Sponsorship

The battle to become the official apparel sponsor of Audi’s forthcoming Formula 1 team is intensifying, with sportswear giants Adidas and Puma reportedly competing fiercely for the coveted role.

Audi, which is set to debut in F1 in 2026 through its partnership with Sauber Motorsport, is looking to secure a prominent sportswear partner to bolster its entry into the high-profile world of racing. The deal, estimated to be worth around $30 million annually, is expected to play a crucial role in establishing Audi’s presence on the grid.

Adidas, currently leading the charge according to SportsBusiness, is rumored to be in pole position for the sponsorship. The brand is reportedly set to replace Puma as Mercedes’ official clothing partner starting in 2025, making it a significant player in the F1 apparel market. Adidas had previously shown interest in teaming up with Red Bull Racing but was unable to clinch that partnership, which continued with Castore.

Puma, however, is not backing down. The sportswear company, which currently enjoys a successful partnership with Ferrari, is keen to expand its footprint in F1 and remains a strong contender for the Audi deal. The competition underscores the high commercial stakes involved and the appeal of aligning with the glamorous and globally recognized sport.

Audi has already made notable progress in other areas of its F1 project, securing technical partnerships with BP and appointing Castrol as its lubricant supplier. The appointment of an apparel sponsor will further enhance the team’s branding and visibility.

Adidas CEO Bjorn Gulden, reflecting on the growing significance of F1, stated, “The three races in the United States have brought great visibility and interest to this sport even in the US, and Formula 1 is a big business. Most of the contracts in F1 regarding technical sponsors expire in 2026. We are talking with several teams, and the plans are so advanced that I can’t say anything. We will do so as soon as we can.”

As Audi gears up for its F1 debut, the team is expected to forgo a traditional title sponsor, focusing instead on using its new platform to elevate its global brand presence. The outcome of this apparel sponsorship battle will not only provide substantial exposure for the winning brand but also play a pivotal role in shaping the identity of Audi’s new F1 venture.