F1 Rumor: Mercedes to share Adidas sponsorship with Audi

(GMM) Audi looks set to arrive in Formula 1 next year with Adidas branding and a red and black livery.

That’s the claim of Europe’s largest newspaper, the German daily Bild-Zeitung, revealing that Mercedes looks set to have to share its Adidas sponsorship with another German marque.

“The deal is finalized and is expected to be announced in the coming weeks,” the report announces. “For Adidas, this is the second top deal in just a few months.”

It means Nico Hulkenberg, already with Sauber as the team transitions to full Audi branding for 2026 and beyond, will be a German driver wearing German clothing whilst driving for a German marque.

27 Nico Hulkenberg, (GER) Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber, during the Spanish GP, Barcelona 29 May-1 June 2025, Montemelò Formula 1 World championship 2025.

Bild, however, says Audi will only collect around 25 million euros from Adidas next year, compared to the reported 30 million paid to Mercedes.

The newspaper continued: “It is considered likely that the colors red and black will play a key role at Audi next year.

“Paddock rumors suggest these will be the main colors of the cars. All that’s missing now is a golden future for the new German team.”