Jonathan Wheatley quits Audi role, Aston Martin switch rumours gather pace

Jonathan Wheatley exits Audi F1 role; Aston Martin rumours intensify

Jonathan Wheatley has left his position as team principal of Audi with immediate effect, the team confirmed on Friday. Mattia Binotto will step in as team principal while continuing to lead Audi’s broader F1 project. Audi cited personal reasons for Wheatley’s departure and kept its statement concise, thanking him for his contribution and wishing him well for the future.

The development comes amid fresh speculation linking Wheatley to a possible move to Aston Martin. Reports had suggested he could replace Adrian Newey, allowing Newey to shift focus exclusively to technical responsibilities. Aston Martin, however, dismissed the claims and reaffirmed that Newey remains in charge as team principal.

Binotto expands role at Audi

Binotto, who joined in 2024 to spearhead Audi’s Formula One entry, has been instrumental in shaping the team into a full works operation. He oversaw its transition into a constructor responsible for both chassis and power unit development and will now formally take on team principal duties.

Wheatley’s brief tenure

Before joining Audi’s predecessor Sauber last year, Wheatley spent over a decade at Red Bull Racing as sporting director, playing a key role in the team’s championship-winning era alongside Newey. His stint leading Audi’s F1 effort, however, proved short-lived.

With Wheatley now available, attention turns to his next move. Aston Martin—currently enduring a difficult season without a point—remains under pressure, with Fernando Alonso even reporting severe discomfort due to car vibrations during the Chinese Grand Prix.

The paddock is now watching closely to see where Wheatley lands next.