Jonathan Wheatley Named New Team Principal at Audi F1

Jonathan Wheatley, the longstanding sporting director at Red Bull Racing, is poised to assume the role of team principal at Audi’s Formula 1 team. After nearly two decades at Red Bull, during which he significantly shaped the team’s strategies and successes, Wheatley’s expertise will now drive Audi’s ambitious entry into the sport.

Career Achievements of Jonathan Wheatley

Jonathan Wheatley
Audi F1 Team Principal

Began F1 Career at Benetton/Renault (1991): Quickly ascended to chief mechanic, significantly contributing to the team’s competitive strategies.

Drivers’ Championships with Benetton/Renault: Played a crucial role in securing two championships with Michael Schumacher (1994, 1995) and later with Fernando Alonso (2005).

Joined Red Bull Racing (2006): Instrumental in transforming Red Bull into a dominant force in Formula 1.

Red Bull Racing Achievements:

• Contributed to six world constructors’ titles.
• Played a key role in winning seven world drivers’ championships.

2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: Made pivotal decisions that influenced the race outcome, securing the championship for Max Verstappen.

Wheatley’s Formula 1 journey is distinguished by strategic excellence and technical innovation. Beginning in 1991 with Benetton/Renault, he played a crucial role in securing multiple drivers’ championships. His tenure at Red Bull began in 2006, where he was instrumental in the team securing six constructors’ titles and seven drivers’ championships. Wheatley’s role in the dramatic 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix underscores his strategic acumen, where his decisions were pivotal in Max Verstappen clinching the championship.

Wheatley’s New Role at Audi

As Wheatley concludes his role with Red Bull at the end of this season, his upcoming ‘gardening leave’ will precede his official start with Audi by July 2025. This move, initially announced to the surprise of many, was later confirmed by Audi, indicating a strategic acquisition by the automaker.

With the integration of the Sauber team, Audi plans to debut its F1 car and engine in 2026. Wheatley will play a crucial role in shaping Audi’s performance and operational strategies. His collaboration with Mattia Binotto, who oversees the technical development and operative management, is set to form a formidable leadership team.

Audi’s Vision and Future Prospects

Gernot Dollner, Audi’s CEO, expressed confidence in Wheatley and Binotto’s capabilities to navigate Audi’s F1 aspirations: “Their vast experience and leadership are instrumental as we aim to establish a competitive presence in Formula 1.”

Wheatley himself is enthusiastic about his new role: “Leading Audi’s F1 team presents an exciting new professional challenge, and I am eager to apply my years of experience in Formula 1 to help Audi achieve its competitive goals.”

Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal, acknowledged Wheatley’s significant contributions: “Jonathan has been a key player in our success. His strategic insights and leadership have been invaluable, and he will undoubtedly be missed.”

Red Bull is expected to announce a restructured team approach in the upcoming months as it adjusts to Wheatley’s departure.