Jonathan Wheatley and Mattia Binotto will establish a “dual management” system for Audi’s Formula 1 team as the brand transitions the Sauber squad in 2026.
The announcement of Wheatley’s impending departure from his role as sporting director was made by the Red Bull team on Thursday, with Audi initially remaining silent.
However, Audi has since issued a statement confirming Red Bull’s announcement, specifying that Wheatley will join Sauber/Audi in July 2025.
Upon concluding his tenure at Red Bull by the end of 2024, he will enter a gardening leave period until he assumes his new position as team principal with Sauber, just in time for its evolution into the Audi factory team at the start of the following season.
The decision to hire Wheatley by Audi followed closely after the manufacturer dismissed former Sauber CEO Andreas Seidl and chairman of the board Oliver Hoffmann due to an internal power struggle.
Audi has elaborated on the collaboration between Binotto and Wheatley, stating, “there is a distinct division of roles, and responsibilities are clearly outlined,” along with their commitment to “jointly oversee the racing team’s success” while “reporting directly to [Audi CEO] Gernot Dollner, who serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sauber Motorsport AG.”
Binotto, serving as team COO and CTO, will oversee Audi’s Hinwil factory and technical division, which includes coordinating the design and assembly of new Audi vehicles and managing the engine facility in Neuburg.
Jonathan Wheatley, Team Manager, Red Bull Racing
Photo by: Mark Sutton / Motorsport Images
Wheatley will lead the team’s F1 presence at events and act as its media representative.
“The move to establish a dual management team is a component of the restructuring of the control setup for the upcoming factory team, particularly during Audi’s complete acquisition of the Sauber Group,” stated Audi.
“I am thrilled that we have secured Jonathan Wheatley as our team principal for the future Formula 1 team,” remarked Gernot Dollner.
“Jonathan has been instrumental in securing numerous Formula 1 victories and championship titles throughout his career, bringing vast experience to the paddock. He is an invaluable addition to our organization.
“With Jonathan and Mattia’s appointments, we have made a significant advancement toward our entry into Formula 1.
“I am confident that having them both allows us to integrate an exceptionally high level of expertise for Audi.
“Their knowledge and capabilities will assist us in quickly establishing ourselves in the highly competitive realm of Formula 1.”
Mattia Binotto, Team Principal, Ferrari, with Jonathan Wheatley, Team Manager, Red Bull Racing
Photo by: Mark Sutton / Motorsport Images
Wheatley remarked, “I take great pride in my 18-year journey with Red Bull Racing and will cherish many memories from my time there.
“Nonetheless, the chance to actively contribute to Audi’s entry into Formula 1 as the lead of a factory team is an exhilarating opportunity, and I am eager to embrace the challenge ahead.
“I am also pleased to collaborate with Mattia, whom I have known for many years and who is the ideal partner for this thrilling initiative.”
Binotto expressed, “I have held Jonathan in high regard for many years, recognizing him as a knowledgeable and dedicated motorsport professional.
“Given that 2026 is just around the corner, I’m excited to work with Jonathan to establish the new racing team for Audi and lead it to success.”
