Jonathan Wheatley, a highly influential figure in modern Formula 1, has joined the Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber, soon to be the Audi F1 Team, as Team Principal. With nearly two decades of experience at Red Bull Racing, Wheatley brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role. In an interview, Wheatley discussed his decision to join Audi, citing the perfect timing of the team’s introduction to Formula One, given the sport’s growing financial security and the alignment of Audi’s car development program with the new technical regulations.
Wheatley expressed his ambition to win world championships with Audi, leveraging his experience of 19 championships and 154 race wins. He attributes his motivation to his passion for the sport and the energy of working with a focused and driven team. Wheatley also credited the growth of Formula One’s popularity in the United States to the Netflix series “Drive to Survive” and the COVID-19 pandemic, which introduced the sport to a new audience.
As Team Principal, Wheatley is excited about the prospect of competing in the United States, particularly in Las Vegas, where the team is committed to building a strong presence. He enjoys the diversity of the racing calendar, citing the unique merits of each location, including Texas, Miami, and Las Vegas. Wheatley’s career has afforded him the luxury of traveling the world, meeting new people, and experiencing different cultures, which he believes broadens the mind and keeps him excited about the sport.
When asked about his personal aspirations, Wheatley expressed a desire to drive classic cars on iconic routes like Route 66, although he acknowledges that such pursuits will have to wait. For now, he is focused on the Audi Formula One Project, which represents an exciting opportunity for him to combine his passion for cars with his experience in the sport. Wheatley’s journey to Audi has also introduced him to the beauty of Switzerland, where he now resides, and he is enthusiastic about the team’s prospects for success in the future.
Ultimately, Wheatley’s goal is to lead Audi to championship wins, and he invites fans to join the team on this exciting journey. With his experience, expertise, and passion for the sport, Wheatley is confident that Audi will become a competitive force in Formula One, and he is eager to contribute to the team’s success.