BERLIN, Germany - Audi has taken a step back from speculation it is contemplating a foray in Formula 1.
Off the back of ever-burgeoning rumours, VW brand chief Rupert Stadler admitted earlier in May that entering F1 is "an option for Audi".
On Monday (May 18), Stadler was back-pedalling, indicating that the current state of the pinnacle of motor sport was not attractive for Audi.
He was quoted as saying by the German daily Handelsblatt: "F1 needs to solve its problems on its own."
Earlier in May, Wheels24 reported that Audi could prevent Red Bull from quitting F1, according to a sensational claim by the team official Helmut Marko.
Marko remains concerned by Red Bull's struggles in F1. The team continues to battle in the new power unit era with engine partner Renault.
He sensationally told the BBC: "If we don't have a competitive engine in the near future, then either Audi is coming or we are out."
Marko said formal talks with Audi had not taken place.