Red Bull Racing is going through a significant exodus of its top executives in a shocking turn of events. Earlier this year, the well-known aerodynamicist Adrian Newey revealed his decision to leave for the first time. Newey will begin seeking fresh opportunities with a different team in January 2025. Now, Jonathan Wheatley, Red Bull’s Sporting Director, has chosen to do the same, becoming another prominent departure from Christian Horner’s team. Wheatley will be taking over the position at Audi that was previously occupied by Andreas Seidl.
The changeover to Audi
Andreas Seidl departed McLaren in January 2023 to become part of Audi, aiming to lead the German car manufacturer through their ambitious Formula 1 debut by 2026. However, Seidl’s tenure at Audi ended unexpectedly in July, prompting worries about the company’s progress and stability. Audi’s Oliver Hoffmann, a senior executive, also departed, worsening the lack of leadership. In response to these issues, Audi has taken decisive action by hiring prominent figures from Formula 1, such as ex-Ferrari Team Principal Mattia Binotto and Jonathan Wheatley.
Jonathan Wheatley’s time at Red Bull Racing
Jonathan Wheatley, who is an engineer, began his motorsport career at Benetton, as a junior mechanic. And he w2orked with F1 legend Michael Schumacher when he was 57 years old. Over a span of over ten years, he rose through the ranks to reach the position of head mechanic before moving to Red Bull Racing in 2006. While at Red Bull, Wheatley was instrumental in ensuring that the team’s vehicles complied with FIA regulations and overseeing the pit crew. He set a new world record for the fastest pit stop in F1 during the 2019 Brazilian Grand Prix, finishing it in only 1.82 seconds.
During the divisive 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Wheatley became more prominent in the public spotlight, thanks to his important role alongside FIA Race Director Michael Masi in Max Verstappen’s championship victory. This occurrence established Wheatley as a skilled tactician in Formula 1.
Audi’s new leadership structure
With his extensive knowledge and experience, Wheatley is seen as the perfect candidate to replace Andreas Seidl at Audi. The German outfit has structured a dual management system, with Binotto overseeing the technical aspects as COO and CTO, while Wheatley will manage the team as Team Principal. This clear division of responsibilities aims to prevent the internal conflicts that plagued Audi’s previous leadership.
Impact on Red Bull Racing
Jonathan Wheatley’s departure marks the end of an 18-year association with Red Bull. The team, however, is prepared to adapt. Red Bull plans to promote from within, with current Technical Director Pierre Wache being a likely candidate for a higher role. Gianpiero Lambiase, who is Max Verstappen’s race engineer, could potentially take over Wheatley’s position.
Christian Horner, the head of Red Bull’s team, has acknowledged the substantial salary of Wheatley and suggested that the team could bring on several engineers to replace him. This reorganization seeks to uphold Red Bull’s competitive advantage despite the departure of two essential individuals.
The outlook for Wheatley and Red Bull
Jonathan Wheatley’s transition to Audi marks a notable change in the F1 scene. Audi is ready to make a powerful entrance in 2026 thanks to his skills and guidance. In the meantime, Red Bull will be challenged to showcase their adaptability and restructuring skills while striving to stay ahead in Formula 1.
While the motorsport community watches these developments, an ongoing uncertainty remains about Jonathan Wheatley’s ability to replicate his success at Audi, or if Red Bull’s internal promotions will prove effective in maintaining their dominance.
