Audi hopes the additions of Jonathan Wheatley and Mattia Binotto to its System 1 challenge will assist the producer “get a foothold rapidly” when it enters the game in 2026.
Wheatley’s arrival as group principal of the challenge subsequent 12 months was introduced following a Purple Bull assertion in regards to the sporting director’s departure. He’ll be part of Binotto at Audi the place he shall be chief technical officer and chief operations officer of the F1 group. Confirming Wheatley’s signing, Audi AG CEO Gernot Dollner says the main target has been on securing skilled group members who’re absolutely conscious of what it takes to be aggressive.
“I’m delighted that now we have been capable of achieve Jonathan Wheatley as group principal for our future System 1 group,” Dollner mentioned. “Jonathan has performed a serious half in lots of System 1 race victories and world championship titles in his System 1 profession to this point, and has in depth expertise within the paddock. He’s a really priceless addition to our group.
“With the appointment of Jonathan and Mattia now we have taken a decisive step in direction of our entry into System 1. I’m satisfied that with the 2 of them, now we have been capable of mix an especially excessive stage of competence for Audi. Their expertise and their capacity will assist us to get a foothold rapidly within the powerful aggressive world of System 1.”
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The Purple Bull announcement earlier within the day appeared to catch Audi out, with no assertion forthcoming for quite a few hours and no feedback from Wheatley on the time. As a part of the acknowledgement from his new group, Wheatley says the chance to step as much as a group principal position was too good to show down.
Mattia Binotto (left) with Jonathan Wheatley in 2022. Mark Sutton/Motorsport Photographs
“I’m extraordinarily proud to have been part of the Purple Bull Racing journey during the last 18 years and can go away with many fond reminiscences,” Wheatley mentioned. “Nonetheless, the chance to play an lively half in Audi’s entry into System 1 as head of a manufacturing unit group is a uniquely thrilling prospect, and I’m wanting ahead to the problem.
“Additionally I’m glad to be working along with Mattia, whom I’ve recognized for a few years and who’s the suitable individual to collaborate with on this thrilling challenge.”
Whereas the pair haven’t labored alongside one another earlier than, Binotto says he holds Wheatley in excessive regard resulting from his work at Purple Bull.
“I’ve recognized Jonathan for a few years and charge him extremely as an skilled and dedicated motorsport knowledgeable,” Binotto added. “2026 just isn’t a very long time away now, and I’m wanting ahead to organising the brand new racing group for Audi together with Jonathan and main it to success.”
