Mattia Binotto confirms Audi is looking to replace Wheatley

Audi faces sudden leadership change

Audi’s Formula 1 project has been rocked by the immediate departure of Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley, a move described by Mattia Binotto as "very unexpected" and sudden.

"It has been very fast, very unexpected for the entire team," Binotto said in an exclusive interview at Suzuka. "It has been really a sudden departure, a sudden change."

Binotto acknowledged the scale of the shift: "When such changes are happening, big changes, you certainly first need to realise and to understand the impact and organise yourself."

Interim structure and the need for a replacement

Until a successor is appointed, Binotto will assume Wheatley’s responsibilities. Prior to the departure, the two operated under a dual leadership model: Binotto oversaw the overall Audi F1 project, including the chassis and power unit factories, while Wheatley managed the race team at track.

That balance will now need to be restored.

"Looking at what his strengths were, the task he was performing – we need to fill the gap," Binotto explained. "I can't simply add more and more responsibility and tasks for myself."

With his primary focus set on transforming the factory operations and developing both car and powertrain, Binotto made clear that dedicated leadership at the circuit is essential.

"My main focus is at the factory base where we need to transform the team, where we need to develop the car and the powertrain, so I will need someone to support the team here at the race weekend."

Audi is already evaluating its options.

"We are considering it. We will organise ourselves and I am pretty sure that very soon we can announce it."

Focus remains on long-term objectives

Despite the disruption, Binotto is determined to keep attention firmly on Audi’s broader ambitions, including its target of building a championship-contending team by 2030.

"We are focused on the future," he said. "Looking back makes no sense. We are fully focused on what's next. We are committed to our objectives."

He emphasised the collective nature of the challenge ahead.

"We know exactly what's required. Each single individual in the team is really committed and focused. It's a team effort. It's not about individuals. It's a team effort. As a team, we know exactly what's required."

For Audi, the task now is twofold: stabilise its trackside leadership structure and ensure that an unexpected change at the top does not derail the momentum of its new era in Formula 1.