Audi’s Formula 1 team has announced the sudden departure of Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley, who joined less than a year ago. Wheatley, previously associated with Red Bull Racing, took on a leadership role at Kick Sauber as they transitioned into a full works Audi entry for the 2026 season. During his tenure, the team showed promise with a climb up the grid, achieving multiple points finishes and securing their first podium at Silverstone with Nico Hulkenberg.
Following significant regulation changes in Formula 1 and just two races into the 2026 season, Wheatley has decided to leave for personal reasons, marking the end of his brief stint as team boss. Audi Revolut F1 Team will undergo significant changes in its senior management structure due to Wheatley’s departure. Mattia Binotto, Head of Audi F1 Project, will now take on the role of Team Principal in addition to his current responsibilities.
Wheatley’s exit marks the end of a successful Formula 1 career that began in the early 1990s with Benetton Formula. He progressed through the ranks, serving as Chief Mechanic and later joining Red Bull in 2006, where he played a crucial role in the team’s achievements during a dominant era in the sport.
