The Audi Formula 1 operation is facing a significant structural transformation ahead of the German manufacturer's full entry onto the grid. Veteran engineer and key Sauber-era figure Beat Zehnder is officially set to leave the Hinwil-based squad at the end of the 2027 season after dedicating decades of his professional career to the pinnacle of motorsport.
The 60-year-old Swiss stalwart has been an intrinsic part of the Sauber organization since even before its maiden grand prix debut back in 1993. His remarkable journey inside the factory began when he served as a mechanic during its factory-backed Mercedes operation in the World Sportscars, before eventually stepping up to assume the role of team manager for the majority of Sauber's tenure in Formula 1.
Shifts in team ownership over the decades never managed to dislodge Zehnder from his influential position within the garage. When team founder Peter Sauber stepped away in 2012 and officially retired in 2016 following the acquisition by Finn Rausing's Longbow Finance, Zehnder retained his senior management role and continued guiding the outfit through its various competitive eras.
However, the landscape shifted following Audi's complete takeover of the operation to prepare for the upcoming engine regulations. During the initial transition phase, he transitioned into a factory-based role before ultimately deciding to exit the project entirely as a direct consequence of the operational restructuring ahead of the 2027 campaign.
Throughout his legendary presence in the paddock, Zehnder achieved an astonishing milestone by working across 601 consecutive Formula 1 grands prix without missing a single race weekend. Audi acknowledged his monumental contribution through an official statement praising his legacy.
"He has been a mentor to hundreds of team members and drivers who have passed through Hinwil over the years," Audi wrote in their official statement. "We thank him for 39 years of outstanding service and wish him all the very best for the future."
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