Jonathan Wheatley Leaves Audi F1 Team After Just 2 Races
Joseph Portlock via Getty
The latest in car news and reviews, no nonsense
Subscribe to our free daily newsletter for the most important stories delivered to your inbox every weekday.
Jonathan Wheatley, the upbeat and charming Brit who transitioned from Red Bull Racing to become Audi’s inaugural Formula 1 team principal, is no longer with the team. His departure was attributed to “personal reasons.”
On Thursday, there were speculations about Wheatley moving to Aston Martin, especially with Adrian Newey potentially stepping down as team principal, but the team didn't officially announce his exit until Friday.
“We appreciate Jonathan Wheatley’s contributions during the critical entry phase and wish him all the best for his future endeavors,” stated Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG, in a press release. “Mattia Binotto and the team will steadfastly continue on the path we have chosen.”
Mattia Binotto, who Wheatley originally reported to, will take on the role immediately as the team prepares for the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix.
This unexpected turn of events is likely to have significant ramifications not only for Audi but throughout the paddock. The German/Swiss team will need to reorganize its staff unless Binotto intends to hold the team principal position long-term. Even in that case, it’s likely that someone else will need to take on the responsibilities he previously managed. A similar situation is unfolding at Aston.
Will Wheatley bring colleagues from Audi or Red Bull along with him? It will be interesting to find out.
Have a tip? Email us at tips@thedrive.com
Other articles
Despite achieving record sales, profit declines indicate that even Lamborghini is not shielded from tariffs, according to TDS.
Lamborghini increased its prices to counteract tariffs, but the adjustments were insufficient to prevent a decline in profits, even with record revenue and unit sales in 2025.
Observe the electric current from 400 car batteries ignite a suspension spring.
It's similar to Hollywood special effects, but in reality.
You can now use a Tesla Supercharger for your Stellantis EV.
Stellantis EVs have had a difficult 18 months, but at last, there's positive news.
Longtime BMW tuner attributes shutdown to bureaucracy, logistical issues, and inability to motivate the younger generation.
AC Schnitzer's parent organization is looking to sell the brand after 39 years of racing and tuning BMWs.
Jonathan Wheatley Exits Audi F1 Team After Just 2 Races
Aston Martin has not made an official announcement yet, but it is believed that Wheatley will take over from Adrian Newey as team principal.
Carlos Sainz: We must maintain a positive attitude.
Carlos Sainz believes that in the difficult situation the Williams team found itself in at the beginning of the season, the task is to maintain a positive attitude despite this and focus on achieving "small victories"...
Jonathan Wheatley Leaves Audi F1 Team After Just 2 Races
Aston Martin has not made an official statement yet, but it is believed that Wheatley will take over from Adrian Newey as team principal.