Official: Audi confirms Jonathan Wheatley's departure; Binotto takes the helm

Just hours after rumors surfaced about his imminent arrival at Aston Martin, Audi announced a major change in its internal structure: Jonathan Wheatley is leaving the team effective immediately.

In a statement, the German company explained that this decision was due to personal reasons, while praising his work:

“Jonathan Wheatley is leaving the team effective immediately for personal reasons. The team thanks him for his contribution to the project and wishes him all the best for the future.”

A sober announcement… but one with far-reaching consequences in the current context of Formula 1.

A departure that fuels speculation surrounding Aston Martin

This departure comes as Wheatley is widely tipped to join Aston Martin to replace Adrian Newey as team principal.

For Audi, the timing is far from coincidental. Having recently taken on a key role alongside Mattia Binotto, Wheatley was actively involved in shaping the German brand's F1 project.

His sudden departure therefore weakens an organization still under construction, just a few months before Audi's official entry as a factory team.

Mattia Binotto takes on multiple roles

Audi wasted no time in responding, immediately reorganizing its leadership. Mattia Binotto, already at the helm of the F1 project, will now take on the duties of team principal:

“Mattia Binotto […] will continue to lead the team while taking on additional responsibilities as Team Principal.”

Since his arrival in 2024, the former Ferrari boss has overseen the complete transformation of the team, which has gradually evolved from Sauber into a full-fledged manufacturer project (chassis + engine).

This combination of roles reflects a desire for continuity… but also a sense of urgency.

An organization still in flux

Audi notes, however, that this structure is only temporary:

“The team's future structure will be defined at a later date, as the organization continues to adapt to the evolving environment of Formula 1.”

In other words, further changes are to be expected in the coming months.

Despite this instability, the brand remains ambitious and clearly reaffirms its goals:

“With the unwavering commitment of AUDI AG, the Audi Revolut F1 Team will continue to make progress with the goal of competing for titles by 2030.”

A domino effect in Formula 1

This move directly fuels the ongoing game of musical chairs in the paddock.

If Wheatley's move to Aston Martin is confirmed, it will be part of a broader reorganization triggered by the difficulties of the AMR26 and Adrian Newey's expected shift to a purely technical role.

For its part, Audi must now navigate a managerial transition in the midst of a critical development phase.

One thing is certain: as we enter the new era of regulations, the decisions made today could have major consequences for the balance of power in Formula 1 in the coming years.