Audi hopes the additions of Jonathan Wheatley and Mattia Binotto to its Formulation 1 mission will assist the producer “get a foothold shortly” when it enters the game in 2026.
Wheatley’s arrival as crew principal of the mission subsequent 12 months was introduced following a Crimson Bull assertion concerning the sporting director’s departure. He’ll be part of Binotto at Audi the place he shall be chief technical officer and chief operations officer of the F1 crew. Confirming Wheatley’s signing, Audi AG CEO Gernot Dollner says the main target has been on securing skilled crew members who’re totally conscious of what it takes to be aggressive.
“I’m delighted that we’ve got been in a position to achieve Jonathan Wheatley as crew principal for our future Formulation 1 crew,” Dollner stated. “Jonathan has performed a significant half in lots of Formulation 1 race victories and world championship titles in his Formulation 1 profession to date, and has in depth expertise within the paddock. He’s a really invaluable addition to our crew.
“With the appointment of Jonathan and Mattia we’ve got taken a decisive step in the direction of our entry into Formulation 1. I’m satisfied that with the 2 of them, we’ve got been in a position to mix an especially excessive stage of competence for Audi. Their expertise and their means will assist us to get a foothold shortly within the robust aggressive world of Formulation 1.”
The Crimson Bull announcement earlier within the day appeared to catch Audi out, with no assertion forthcoming for numerous hours and no feedback from Wheatley on the time. As a part of the acknowledgement from his new crew, Wheatley says the chance to step as much as a crew principal position was too good to show down.
Mattia Binotto (left) with Jonathan Wheatley in 2022. Mark Sutton/Motorsport Photos
“I’m extraordinarily proud to have been part of the Crimson Bull Racing journey over the past 18 years and can go away with many fond recollections,” Wheatley stated. “Nevertheless, the chance to play an lively half in Audi’s entry into Formulation 1 as head of a manufacturing unit crew is a uniquely thrilling prospect, and I’m wanting ahead to the problem.
“Additionally I’m glad to be working along with Mattia, whom I’ve identified for a few years and who’s the appropriate particular person to collaborate with on this thrilling mission.”
Whereas the pair haven’t labored alongside one another earlier than, Binotto says he holds Wheatley in excessive regard because of his work at Crimson Bull.
“I’ve identified Jonathan for a few years and charge him extremely as an skilled and dedicated motorsport professional,” Binotto added. “2026 isn’t a very long time away now, and I’m wanting ahead to establishing the brand new racing crew for Audi together with Jonathan and main it to success.”
