Mattia Binotto, the head of Audi’s F1 project, has praised the appointment of Jonathan Wheatley as the team principal, citing his championship-winning experience at Red Bull. Wheatley, who joined Audi in April, brings nearly two decades of experience in F1, including his time as team manager and sporting director at Red Bull, where he played a key role in the team’s two most recent constructors’ championships. Binotto believes that Wheatley’s knowledge of what it takes to win is essential for Audi’s ambitious project, which aims to compete for titles by 2030.
Audi’s transition from Sauber to a fully-fledged F1 team is a significant undertaking, and Binotto likens it to joining the Champions League, European football’s premier club competition. He emphasizes that Wheatley’s winning mentality and experience are crucial in helping the team develop and succeed. Binotto, who has experience as a team principal himself, having led Ferrari from 2019 to 2022, will work closely with Wheatley to fulfill their respective duties.
The two leaders will combine their experiences and cultures to drive the team forward. Binotto notes that his own experience, combined with Wheatley’s, will create a positive mix that will help the team succeed. The blending of Sauber and Audi’s cultures is also seen as a key factor in the team’s future success. With Wheatley at the helm, Audi is looking to replicate the success of Red Bull, which won its first F1 title in 2010, five years after purchasing the Jaguar team.
Binotto is confident that Wheatley’s appointment is a significant step in the right direction for Audi. He believes that the team needs a winning mentality and someone who knows what it takes to succeed at the highest level. With Wheatley’s experience and Binotto’s guidance, Audi is well-placed to achieve its ambitious goals and become a competitive force in F1. The team’s maiden voyage in 2026 will be closely watched, and with the right leadership and expertise, Audi is poised to make a significant impact in the world of F1.