Audi has announced significant organizational changes to its Formula 1 project as it prepares for its official entry into the world championship in 2026. The changes aim to streamline development and operational workflows as Audi integrates into the existing Sauber infrastructure and finalizes its takeover of the team. Mattia Binotto, who joined Audi’s F1 program last summer, will now lead the project as Head of Audi F1 Project, overseeing development efforts across Audi’s key facilities. Binotto’s promotion reflects a renewed push for technical synergy as Audi accelerates efforts to be fully prepared for the regulatory overhaul arriving with the 2026 season.
The company has also announced the arrival of a new Chief Operating Officer, Christian Foyer, who brings nearly two decades of experience in operations and project management within Formula 1 and high-performance automotive manufacturing. Foyer will join the AFR management board, taking over operational responsibilities previously held by outgoing CEO Adam Baker, whose role has been eliminated as part of the organizational restructure.
Stefan Dreyer will continue to lead power unit development at Neuberg and has been appointed as spokesperson for the AFR management board, reinforcing the technical direction of Audi’s F1 power unit division. Jonathan Wheatley, former Red Bull Sporting Director, has started his tenure as Team Principal and Management Board Spokesperson at Sauber Motorsport AG, managing race operations at the Hinwil-based squad.
These developments signal Audi’s clear intent to establish a high-functioning and technically unified team ahead of its highly anticipated Formula 1 debut. With new leadership in place and a sharpened focus on integration between race car and powertrain programs, the German manufacturer is entering the next phase of its F1 journey with increased momentum. The changes aim to achieve seamless coordination between the race car and powertrain, which is seen as a foundation for long-term competitiveness in Formula 1.
Audi’s entry into Formula 1 is expected to be a significant milestone for the company, and the organizational changes announced are designed to ensure that the team is well-prepared for the challenges ahead. With a strong leadership team in place and a clear focus on technical synergy, Audi is poised to make a significant impact in the world of Formula 1. The company’s commitment to establishing a unified and integrated team is a key aspect of its strategy, and the latest developments suggest that Audi is on track to achieve its goals.