Audi has once again dismissed suggestions it is poised to enter Formula 1, amid regular speculation that a Volkswagen Group brand is on the cusp of launching a F1 project was boosted in recent days by the departure of its chief Ferdinand Piech.
It is believed Piech had ruled out F1 while Bernie Ecclestone is at the helm, while his expected successor Martin Winterkorn is reportedly much more open to considering a grand prix foray to the delight of Audi dealers, who would welcome that marketing boost.
Audi, a flagship VW brand involved in top motor racing, would undoubtedly be in pole position for an F1 project, and new acquisition Stefano Domenicali even conducted a feasibility study late last year.
But even in light of Piech's departure, an spokesman told the BBC: "The current situation is that Audi definitely has no intention to enter F1."
The spokesman said Audi has no capacity at its motorsport facility, given its existing Le Mans and DTM projects.
Interestingly, Audi Sport late last year began moving from its existing facility in Ingolstadt, Germany, to nearby Neuburg.
When asked last year if "new opportunities" would open up for Audi Sport due to the move, chief Wolgang Ullrich said: "We now have adequate grounds and perfect facilities to set ourselves up."
VW's other marques are Porsche, Bentley, Lamborghini, Seat and Skoda.
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