Sporting Director, Jonathan Wheatley has quit Red Bull to take up Team Principal position at Audi.
Audi are set to enter F1 in 2026 as they take over the Sauber entry and have now appointed Wheatley as their new Team Principal as part of the project.
The move will see Wheatley’s 18-year spell with Red Bull come to an end upon completion of the 2024 season, before he spends the first half of 2025 on gardening leave ahead of his move to Audi from July next year.
Red Bull Team Principal, Christian Horner paid tribute to Wheatley for his work at the team, which has seen the Austrian constructor win six constructors’ titles and seven drivers’ titles plus over 100 race victories.
“It has been a long and successful relationship with Jonathan, over 18 years.
“His contribution to six World Constructors’ Titles and seven World Drivers’ Championship, first as Team Manager and latterly Sporting Director will forever be a marker in our Team history.”
Red Bull added: “Everyone at Oracle Red Bull Racing and Red Bull Technology wish him all the best in his new role and would like to place our thanks to Jonathan.
“Red Bull Racing have tremendous strength and depth and this provides opportunity to elevate others within the Team. We will announce a new Team structure in the coming weeks.”
Following Audi’s official confirmation of his appointment as Team Principal, Wheatley commented: “I am extremely proud to have been a part of the Red Bull Racing journey over the last eighteen years and will leave with many fond memories.
“However, the opportunity to play an active part in Audi’s entry into Formula 1 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.”
Confirmation of Wheatley’s move comes as ex Ferrari Team Principal, Mattia Binotto commences work as Audi’s Chief Operating and Chief Technical Officer today (1 August).
Binotto welcomed Wheatley’s arrival as he said: “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.”
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