Audi’s Formula 1 Ambitions: A Recent Era Begins with Wheatley at the Helm

Audi is embarking on a bold journey into Formula 1, aiming to become the “most successful F1 team in history,” according to team principal Jonathan Wheatley . The German manufacturer’s entry into the sport, taking over the Sauber team in 2026, marks a rekindling of a historic rivalry with Mercedes and signals a serious commitment to competing at the highest level.

A Legacy of Motorsport Success

Audi’s motorsport pedigree is well-established. The brand boasts 13 victories at the Le Mans 24 Hours between 1999 and 2016, and revolutionized rallying with the introduction of the quattro four-wheel-drive system in the early 1980s. While Audi previously competed in the European Grand Prix Championship in the 1930s – achieving a title win with Bernd Rosemeyer in 1936 – their return to Formula 1 represents a new chapter in their racing history. This re-entry immediately sets the stage for a renewed competition with Mercedes, a rivalry that dates back to the pre-war era .

Turbulent Transition and Leadership Changes

The path to Audi’s F1 entry hasn’t been without its challenges. Initial investment following the announcement in August 2022 was considered insufficient, leading to a period of stagnation for Sauber in 2023 and 2024. This prompted a significant leadership overhaul, beginning with the departure of CEO Andreas Seidl, who had previously served as team principal at McLaren .

A dual management structure was then implemented, bringing in former Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto to oversee factory operations in Switzerland and Germany, and Jonathan Wheatley to lead trackside activities. Further changes saw Binotto assume the role of head of the Audi F1 project, and Adam Baker depart the company.

Wheatley’s Appointment and Early Progress

Jonathan Wheatley, formerly the Sporting Director at Red Bull Racing, officially joined Audi as Team Principal in March 2026 . His extensive experience – including nearly two decades with Red Bull and prior roles with Benetton and Renault – brings a wealth of knowledge to the Audi project. Wheatley’s arrival coincided with a positive shift in Sauber’s performance in 2025, culminating in veteran driver Nico Hulkenberg securing a podium finish at the 2025 British Grand Prix after 16 years of trying .

The 2026 season has seen promising early signs for Audi. The team was the first to run its car built to the new regulations in January and implemented an aerodynamic upgrade during pre-season testing in Bahrain. Current driver lineup, featuring Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, are aiming to compete in the midfield with Haas, Alpine, and Racing Bulls, and ahead of Williams.

Looking Ahead

Despite the positive start, Hulkenberg remains cautious, emphasizing the need to assess performance in competitive conditions. “It’s just speculation right now still,” Hulkenberg stated . “We really don’t grasp until Melbourne and even a few races in…Early days. I hope we’re competitive somewhere in the midfield right now.” Audi’s ambitious goal of becoming the most successful F1 team is a long-term project, but with a seasoned leader in Wheatley and a strong foundation being built, the German manufacturer is poised to make a significant impact on the sport.