Wheatley is poised to take on his new position at Audi as the German manufacturer gears up for its inaugural F1 season in 2026, and will undergo a period of gardening leave upon his exit from Red Bull at the year’s end.
The Brit began his journey with Red Bull in 2006, following his tenure as chief mechanic at Renault, eventually rising to the role of team manager and then sporting director during the team’s two championship-winning eras in F1.
“Our partnership with Jonathan has been extensive and fruitful over the past 18 years,” remarked Red Bull team principal Christian Horner. “His impact on securing six world constructors’ titles and seven world drivers’ championships—as team manager and later as sporting director—will always stand as a significant highlight in our team’s legacy.”
Wheatley’s exit comes on the heels of chief technical officer Adrian Newey’s departure, as the esteemed designer will also be leaving the team at the end of the year.
More updates will follow
