Audi is once again overhauling its Formula 1 team structure as it prepares for its official entry into the sport in 2026. The German manufacturer, set to rebrand the Sauber squad as its works team, has introduced significant leadership changes and strategic investments to bolster its competitiveness.
In a notable move, former Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto has been appointed as the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technical Officer of Sauber Motorsport, replacing Andreas Seidl. Binotto’s extensive experience is expected to guide the team through its transition into the Audi era.
Complementing this leadership shift, Jonathan Wheatley, previously Red Bull Racing’s sporting director, will join as Team Principal in July 2025 after completing his tenure and a mandated gardening leave. Together, Binotto and Wheatley will form a dual management structure, jointly overseeing the team’s performance and reporting directly to Audi CEO Gernot Döllner.
To support its ambitious plans, Audi has secured a significant minority investment from the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), the sovereign wealth fund of the State of Qatar. This capital infusion aims to accelerate the expansion of personnel, facilities, and overall team performance, underscoring the project’s long-term vision.
In line with its growth strategy, Sauber is establishing a new engineering hub in the United Kingdom’s “Motorsport Valley,” targeting regions like Bicester, Silverstone, and Milton Keynes. This move is designed to attract top-tier talent and foster innovation, complementing the team’s existing operations in Hinwil, Switzerland, and Neuburg, Germany.
On the driver front, Sauber has confirmed its lineup for the 2025 season, signing 20-year-old Brazilian Gabriel Bortoleto, the current Formula 2 championship leader, alongside seasoned driver Nico Hülkenberg. This pairing replaces Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu, signaling a blend of youthful potential and experience as the team gears up for its transformation into Audi’s factory team.
These comprehensive changes reflect Audi’s commitment to establishing a formidable presence in Formula 1, aiming to compete at the highest level upon its debut in 2026.
