Jonathan Wheatley joins the Audi project: a new F1 chapter.
A turning point in Jonathan Wheatley’s career.
Jonathan Wheatley, an iconic figure at Red Bull Racing in Formula 1, is set to embark on a new chapter in his career. After playing a key role within the Austrian team since 2006, Wheatley will conclude his tenure with Red Bull at the end of the 2024 season. His departure will mark the end of an era where the British sporting director contributed to many of the team’s successes.
An arrival announced for 2025.
After leaving Red Bull and serving a period of gardening leave, Wheatley is due to join Sauber–Audi by July 2025 at the latest, according to the August 2024 announcement. Audi’s championship debut is scheduled for 2026.
A successful track record at Red Bull.
During his 18 years at Red Bull, Jonathan Wheatley played a pivotal role in securing seven drivers’ world titles, including four won by Sebastian Vettel between 2010 and 2013, and three by Max Verstappen from 2021 to 2023. He also contributed to the team’s six constructors’ titles, won in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2022, and 2023. His expertise and leadership were key factors in Red Bull’s dominance on the global F1 stage.
The impact of Mattia Binotto’s arrival at Audi.
Mattia Binotto is appointed Sauber’s Chief Technical and Operating Officer. In the structure announced in August 2024, he and Wheatley have complementary responsibilities and both report to Sauber board chairman Gernot Döllner.
Audi’s acquisition of Sauber: a transition in progress.
Audi announced plans in 2024 to acquire all of Sauber and accelerate its preparations. Sauber retains Ferrari engines through 2025 before becoming the Audi factory team in 2026.
Conclusion :
Jonathan Wheatley’s departure from Red Bull to Audi marks a significant transition in the Formula 1 landscape. With a renewed team led by respected figures like Wheatley and Binotto, Audi positions itself as a new player to watch starting in 2026. F1 fans will closely follow this new adventure, eager to see how this merged team will perform against the sport’s established giants.
