No, BMW is currently not participating in Formula 1.
While BMW has a rich and storied history within the world of Formula 1, they are not present as an engine supplier or a full factory team in the current season.
BMW's Legacy in Formula 1
BMW has been involved in Formula 1 in various capacities over several decades, leaving a significant mark on the sport. Their involvement can broadly be categorized into two main periods:
Engine Supplier Eras
- Early 1980s (Brabham-BMW): BMW first entered F1 as an engine supplier in 1982 with the Brabham team. This partnership was highly successful, culminating in Nelson Piquet winning the Drivers' World Championship in 1983, making him the first F1 champion to win with a turbocharged engine.
- 2000-2005 (WilliamsF1-BMW): After a hiatus, BMW returned to F1 as an engine partner with the WilliamsF1 team. This period saw numerous race victories and a strong challenge for championships, although a title ultimately eluded the partnership.
Full Factory Team (BMW Sauber F1 Team)
In 2006, BMW took over the Sauber team completely, forming the BMW Sauber F1 Team. This marked their ambition to become a full constructor, designing both the chassis and the engine. The team achieved its first and only victory at the 2008 Canadian Grand Prix with Robert Kubica behind the wheel, alongside consistently strong performances and podium finishes.
Why BMW Withdrew from Formula 1
BMW's decision to withdraw from Formula 1 came at the end of the 2009 season. This move was influenced by a confluence of factors:
- Global Financial Recession: The prevailing global financial downturn significantly impacted automotive manufacturers, leading many to reassess their costly motorsport programs.
- Relevance to Road Car Technology: There was growing frustration within BMW regarding the limitations imposed by the technical regulations of the time. The company felt these rules restricted their ability to develop and implement technologies in F1 that were genuinely relevant or transferable to their road car production, diminishing the value of their investment in the sport.
Following their withdrawal, BMW sold the team back to its original founder, Peter Sauber, who continued to operate it under the Sauber name.
Current Status
Since their departure in 2009, BMW has not returned to Formula 1 in any official capacity. While the brand remains active in other forms of motorsport, such as the FIA World Endurance Championship and various touring car series, their focus has shifted away from the pinnacle of single-seater racing. Fans often speculate about a potential return, but there are no current indications or official announcements suggesting BMW will re-enter Formula 1 in the near future.
To learn more about BMW's motorsport heritage, you can explore their historical involvement in various racing disciplines.
