Binotto dismisses speculation about a new Audi team principal following rumors regarding Horner.

      "They require someone like Christian."

      Mattia Binotto has stated that Audi will not recruit a new team principal following the abrupt departure of Jonathan Wheatley, despite rumors connecting Christian Horner to the position. The German company was taken by surprise between the Chinese and Japanese Grands Prix when Wheatley left immediately, just two races into the post-Sauber period. Former driver Juan Pablo Montoya believes that bringing in a person like Horner would be advantageous for Audi. "They need someone like Christian," he commented. "I think people underestimate what Christian has achieved, how long he has been involved, and what he has accomplished. You might not be a fan of his, but he is capable of so much." However, Binotto has dampened the notion of any outside hire. "We are not seeking a new team principal. I will retain the position, reorganize myself, and reorganize the team," he stated. He emphasized that Audi's structure will develop rather than rely on a single leader. "In the end, it’s not about an individual. It’s about the team. What is most important is the team." Instead, Binotto suggested he will delegate some trackside responsibilities. "I need support during race weekends, as I won’t always be present myself," the Italian remarked. This may lead to a structure similar to Sauber’s previous configuration, with a senior representative managing operations at the circuit while Binotto concentrates on the larger transformation project. On the track, Audi's initial difficulties highlight the magnitude of that challenge. "Unfortunately, this is not the first time this has occurred. The start is certainly not our strong point," Binotto acknowledged after Suzuka, where both cars again lost positions at the start. He cautioned that there is no quick solution. "We haven’t addressed the issue yet simply because there’s no clear solution - it’s at the top of our priority list." Despite the challenges, Binotto stated that the unplanned break in April might be beneficial. "In a way, it’s good that two races were canceled. It gives us more time to think as a team - and hopefully we’ll head to Miami better prepared."