Highly regarded in the paddock Jonathan Wheatley has played a big role in RBR’s success
Audi CEO Gernot Dollner says that the addition future team principal Jonathan Wheatley to the company’s Formula 1 outfit alongside recently announced COO and CTO Mattia Binotto is “a decisive step” ahead of the marque’s entry in 2026.
RBR sporting director Wheatley’s move to Audi was confirmed by his current team earlier today, and the German manufacturer has now clarified how the twin leadership roles will be split, with both men reporting to Gollner, who is chairman of Sauber Motorsport AG.
Audi says that Binotto “takes over the operative management of Sauber Motorsport AG at the site in Hinwil and the technical development of the future racing cars.
“In this role he is the overall technical interface between the development teams in Hinwil and Audi Formula Racing GmbH at the Audi site in Neuburg an der Donau, which is responsible for development of the power unit.”
Wheatley meanwhile will be more involved in race operations as well as day-to-day political dealings with the FIA and F1. Audi says that “he will focus above all on the racing performance of the future F1 factory team, on operational management of all race events, and on representing Audi at team principal level in matters relating to F1.”
In confirming the news Dollner made it clear that he believes that he has created the ideal combination.
“I am delighted that we have been able to gain Jonathan Wheatley as team principal for our future F1 team,” he said. “Jonathan has played a major part in many F1 race victories and World Championship titles in his F1 career so far, and has extensive experience in the paddock. He is a very valuable addition to our team.
“With the appointment of Jonathan and Mattia we have taken a decisive step towards our entry into F1. I am convinced that with the two of them, we have been able to combine an extremely high level of competence for Audi. Their experience and their ability will help us to get a foothold quickly in the tough competitive world of F1.”
Wheatley is set to go on gardening leave at the end of his final season at RBR, with Audi revealing that he will start work in July 2025 “at the latest.”
He said: “I am extremely proud to have been a part of the Red Bull Racing journey over the last 18 years and will leave with many fond memories. However, the opportunity to play an active part in Audi’s entry into F1 as head of a factory team is a uniquely exciting prospect, and I am looking forward to the challenge.
“Also I am glad to be working together with Mattia, whom I have known for many years and who is the right person to collaborate with in this exciting project.”
Binotto added: “I have known Jonathan for many years and rate him highly as an experienced and committed motorsport expert. 2026 is not a long time away now, and I’m looking forward to setting up the new racing team for Audi along with Jonathan and leading it to success.”
Adam Cooper F1 