Red Bull announce sensational exit as Audi make shock swoop

Red Bull has announced the departure of Jonathan Wheatley, who has exited the squad to take on the team principal role at Audi.

Wheatley has long been associated with the Red Bull organisation, where he has worked as the sporting director.

The Briton has been an integral part of Red Bull's F1 success throughout the last two decades, working in tangent with figures such as Christian Horner and Helmut Marko.

Wheatley will continue in his role with Red Bull until the end of the ongoing campaign before entering a period of gardening leave ahead of his switch to Audi.

The German manufacturer will join the F1 grid in 2026, taking over the Sauber-run squad that currently operates under the Stake moniker.

Audi recently went through another significant change with Mattia Binotto appointed the chief operating and chief technical officer of the team.

The Italian's arrival came at the expense of Oliver Hoffmann and Andreas Seidl, who departed the project.

Red Bull set to unveil new structure

Red Bull has confirmed it will announce a new team structure in the weeks ahead in light of Wheatley's departure.

“It has been a long and successful relationship with Jonathan, over 18 years,” said team principal Christian Horner. 

“His contribution to six world constructors’ titles and seven world drivers’ championship, first as team manager and latterly sporting director will forever be a marker in our team history.

“Jonathan will remain in his position until the end of the 2024 season, as the team seek to defend both our world drivers’ and world constructors’ titles successfully. A period of guarding leave will follow in 2025.

“Everyone at Oracle Red Bull Racing and Red Bull Technology wish him all the best in his new role and would like to place our thanks to Jonathan. 

“Red Bull Racing have tremendous strength and depth and this provides opportunity to elevate others within the team. We will announce a new team structure in the coming weeks.”