New Delhi, March 20 (NationPress) Audi, the newest competitor in Formula 1, has announced that Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley has departed from the organization with immediate effect, just under a year after assuming the role. Wheatley, who has a long history with Red Bull Racing, joined this initiative in April of the previous year.

In his leadership position at Kick Sauber, he was instrumental in preparing the team for its evolution into a fully-fledged Audi entry for the 2026 season. His initial tenure displayed potential as he guided the team to a gradual ascent in the rankings, achieving several points finishes and a landmark first podium for Nico Hulkenberg at Silverstone.

Wheatley also played a significant part in steering Sauber through its transition into Audi’s factory-supported team during the winter, marking a pivotal moment for the German automaker's official entry into Formula 1 as both a chassis and power unit manufacturer. The project kicked off positively, with the team earning points on their debut under the new branding.

However, just two races into the 2026 season, amidst considerable regulatory shifts in the sport, Wheatley has opted to step down for personal reasons, thereby concluding his brief leadership as team principal.

“As we continue our pursuit toward the front of the grid, the Audi Revolut F1 Team will undergo significant adjustments in its senior management structure,” stated the team.

“Due to personal matters, Jonathan Wheatley will exit the team immediately. We express our gratitude to Jonathan for his contributions and wish him success in his future endeavors. Mattia Binotto, Head of the Audi F1 Project, will maintain his leadership role while taking on additional responsibilities as Team Principal. Since his appointment in 2024, Mattia has overseen the team's transformation as Audi prepared for and ultimately entered Formula 1 as both a chassis and power unit creator.

“The final structure of the team will be established in due course, as the organization adapts to the evolving landscape of Formula 1. With ongoing support from AUDI AG, the Audi Revolut F1 Team is committed to competing for championships by 2030.”

Wheatley’s departure marks the end of a lengthy and successful career in Formula 1, which began with Benetton Formula in the early 1990s. He advanced through the ranks to become Chief Mechanic and remained through the transition to Renault. In 2006, he joined Red Bull, playing a crucial role during one of the sport's most dominant periods as Sporting Director, contributing to six Constructors’ Championships and seven Drivers’ titles.