Qatar's long-term investment in the future Audi Formula One team, announced at the country's grand prix on Friday, brings obvious benefits for both and increases the Gulf region's influence in the sport.

Audi has sold a stake in its Formula One team to Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund ahead of the German manufacturer’s entry to the sport in 2026. Audi announced on Friday ahead of this weekend’s Qatar Grand Prix that the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) had acquired a “significant minority stake” in the team,

A statement from the German car company said the Gulf state would buy a “significant minority” in the team, which is entering F1 in 2026. The deal will be completed next year, after Audi has taken full ownership of the Sauber team that is the basis for its entry.