Audi Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley Departs Amid Aston Martin Interest Pre-Japanese GP
Audi’s team principal, Jonathan Wheatley, has left the company with immediate effect. The exit comes amid Aston Martin interest and arrives pre-Japanese GP.
Background and recent role
Wheatley joined Sauber, now under Audi ownership, around 12 months ago. He moved there after leaving Red Bull as sporting director at the end of 2024.
He had been working out of Audi’s Swiss factory. Reports also suggested he was keen to return to the UK.
Succession at Audi
Former Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto will assume Wheatley’s responsibilities as team principal. The handover is scheduled ahead of next weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix.
Binotto has served as Head of the Audi F1 Project since 2024. Audi made the appointment to ensure leadership continuity on the grid.
Possible move to Aston Martin
Interest from Aston Martin surrounds Wheatley for the team principal role. A move would allow Adrian Newey to concentrate more on car development.
Aston Martin’s season began poorly, increasing pressure to reorganize management and engineering priorities. That context helps explain the reported Aston Martin interest.
Timing and implications
The change is effective immediately and is timed just before the Japanese Grand Prix. Filmogaz.com will provide updates as further details emerge.
