Audi’s new F1 team caused a stir in the aftermath of the Chinese GP: team principal Jonathan Wheatley had suddenly submitted his resignation. For ‘personal reasons’, the Englishman promptly bid farewell to the German racing stable. Wheatley was brought to Sauber after a successful career at Red Bull to lead Audi to new success. For top executive Mattia Binotto – who is temporarily taking on the duties of team principal – the departure came as a surprise.
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Speaking to the German branch of Sky Sports, Binotto stated that Audi is not looking for a replacement team principal. The Italian – who previously headed Ferrari – is currently pulling the strings in Hinwil and Neuburg. Nevertheless, he emphasized: “The current structure and also my own role are being reorganized. We must ensure there is someone who can support me during race weekends.” As an engineer, Binotto was already largely responsible for Audi’s F1 project, but was less involved in team management.
“There is still a lot to be done at the factory to further develop the team and the cars,” he continued. “I need to be able to stay focused on that. That is why we are thinking about how we can organize the organization differently during race weekends.” In that regard, Audi is benefiting from the unexpected spring break in April. “We have a month without races, and that offers a good opportunity to restructure. We have plenty of ideas and will make an official announcement soon.”
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‘Didn’t see Wheatley’s departure coming’
Binotto could not elaborate further on the situation surrounding Jonathan Wheatley. Initially, it was thought that the Englishman was on his way to Aston Martin, but the Silverstone-based team debunked those rumors. For now, a comeback for the Brit seems far off. “It happened very quickly,” said Binotto, “but sometimes that’s how it goes. Last Friday, Jonathan informed us that for personal reasons – which we cannot discuss, debate, or judge – he could not commit to Audi for the long term. We must respect that as a team.”
“As a result, Audi has decided to relieve him of his duties,” the Italian explained. “And that’s how it went. As I said: now we look forward. He absolutely did a good job within the team. His impact was significant, but now it’s a matter of reorganizing ourselves.” For Binotto too, Wheatley’s departure came as a total surprise, he confirmed when asked. “He was so involved and focused on the team and his duties that I really didn’t see it coming.”
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