Formula 1 News: Audi team signs ex-F2 driver Boschung as Development Driver
In a move that has caught the Formula 1 paddock by surprise, the Audi F1 team has announced the appointment of Swiss driver Ralph Boschung (pictured) as its new development driver ahead of its full debut in the 2026 season. The 28-year-old, a long-time Formula 2 competitor, will contribute to the development of Audi’s inaugural F1 car, the R26, through simulator work and factory-based activities.
–by Mark Cipolloni–
Boschung’s Racing Journey
Ralph Boschung began his motorsport career in karting before progressing through the junior single-seater ranks. He made his Formula 2 debut in 2017 and remained in the series until 2023, amassing over 100 starts primarily with teams like Campos Racing. His standout moment came in 2023 when he secured his maiden F2 victory at the Bahrain Sprint Race, adding to a handful of podium finishes throughout his tenure. Despite facing challenges, including health issues and funding constraints, Boschung became one of the most experienced drivers in F2 history.
In 2024, Boschung stepped away from active racing, announcing his retirement via social media. However, he stayed involved in the sport as a simulator driver for Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber, the outfit Audi is set to fully take over in 2026. This prior experience with the Hinwil-based team likely paved the way for his promotion to a development role within Audi’s expanding F1 operation.
Official Announcement and Role
Audi confirmed the news with a concise statement on social media: “New development driver – building the future with us. We are proud to welcome Swiss driver Ralph Boschung as our development driver. Congratulations on taking the next step with us.” Boschung, expressing his enthusiasm, reposted the announcement on X (formerly Twitter) with an inspirational message: “Never Give up!”
Unlike the team’s recently launched Driver Development Program—headed by former F1 driver Allan McNish and featuring young talents like British karting champion Freddie Slater and F1 Academy driver Emma Felbermayr—Boschung’s position is focused on immediate technical contributions rather than long-term junior nurturing.
McNish emphasized the program’s broader goals: “To be entrusted with finding the cornerstones of the future Audi Revolut F1 Team is a great honor and a responsibility I am very passionate about… Our goal is to build a pathway that turns potential into precision and performance on the world stage.”
Team principal Jonathan Wheatley added: “Investing in the champions of tomorrow is a key pillar of our Formula 1 strategy. The Audi Driver Development Program is a clear statement of our long-term commitment to youth and our ambition to be competitive.” Boschung will work alongside the race drivers, Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, to refine the team’s 2026 challenger as Audi aims for competitiveness by 2030.
Implications for Audi’s F1 Ambitions
This appointment underscores Audi’s strategic buildup to its F1 entry, leveraging experienced personnel to bridge the gap between its current Sauber foundation and future aspirations. Boschung’s extensive F2 background and recent simulator expertise make him a valuable asset for fine-tuning car setups and providing feedback during the critical pre-season phase.
The move has sparked reactions across the F1 community, with fans on Reddit and X expressing a mix of surprise and optimism. One Reddit thread titled “Swiss former F2 driver Ralph Boschung joins Audi as development driver” highlighted his perseverance, while X posts celebrated the “shock signing” as a bold step for the German manufacturer.
As Audi continues to assemble its roster and infrastructure, Boschung’s role could prove pivotal in accelerating the team’s learning curve. AutoRacing1.com will keep monitoring developments as the 2026 season approaches.