Rupert Stadler

Former Audi chief Rupert Stadler was sentenced in 2023 to one year and nine months' imprisonment, suspended, and a payment of 1,1 million euros after acknowledging that he could have intervened sooner once emissions manipulation became known. In December 2025, Germany's Federal Court of Justice dismissed his appeal, making the conviction final.

State of the evidence

Established by a court

Attribution

Personally implicated

Following its internal investigation, Audi's supervisory board concluded that Stadler had negligently breached his duties by failing to ensure sufficient examination of unlawful software functions after September 2016. A damages settlement of 4,1 million euros was reached.

In 2017, Audi prepared and implemented one of its largest management reshuffles, replacing four of its seven management board members. Stadler, already criticised for his handling of the emissions crisis, nevertheless had his term extended. Trade unions and some investors called for an acceleration of the electric strategy and clearer governance.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Direct responsibility

Audi's plan to establish a second Chinese joint venture with SAIC, promoted under Stadler's leadership, triggered a revolt among dealers associated with FAW. Dealers threatened to stop placing orders and referred to cumulative losses of several billion yuan. Audi and the dealer network ultimately reached an agreement in 2017.

State of the evidence

Settlement

Attribution

Direct responsibility