Jonathan Wheatley, a veteran of Red Bull's Formula 1 team, is set to depart for a new challenge with the upcoming Audi F1 team. While Red Bull has confirmed Wheatley will take on the role of Team Principal for the German manufacturer, Audi has yet to officially announce the move.
Wheatley, a prominent figure in the Red Bull organisation for nearly two decades, has played a pivotal role in the team's success, contributing to a remarkable 13 World Championships. His expertise and dedication have been instrumental in securing six World Constructors' Championships and seven World Drivers' Championships, making him a highly respected figure in the Formula 1 world.
Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner paid tribute to Wheatley's long and successful tenure, stating: "It has been a long and successful relationship with Jonathan, over 18 years. His contribution to six World Constructorsâ Titles and seven World Driversâ Championship, first as Team Manager and latterly Sporting Director will forever be a marker in our Team history."
Wheatley's departure from Red Bull will not be immediate. He will remain in his current position as Sporting Director until the end of the 2024 season, after which he will enter a period of gardening leave in 2025 before officially joining Audi.
The move marks a significant development for the upcoming Audi F1 team, which is set to enter the sport in 2026. Securing a figure of Wheatley's experience and expertise is a strong indicator of Audi's ambition and commitment to challenging for top honours in Formula 1.
Wheatley's transition to Audi is expected to bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the German manufacturer, potentially shaping the team's strategic direction and ultimately influencing their performance on the track.