Jonathan Wheatley expresses enthusiasm for continuing Sauber’s positive performance trend into 2026, as the squad evolves into the Audi Formula 1 program.
Having transitioned from Red Bull, Wheatley formally assumed his role with Sauber in April, and has already observed consistent advancements during his relatively brief period as team principal.
At the Austrian Grand Prix, Gabriel Bortoleto secured eighth position, earning his initial points in F1, while a significant achievement occurred at the British GP where Nico Hulkenberg obtained his first podium result in 239 F1 starts by securing third place – signifying Sauber’s first podium since 2012.
Wheatley indicates his intention to expand upon that foundation as the team gears up for its transition into an Audi-managed enterprise in the coming season.
When questioned by Autosport at the Goodwood Festival of Speed concerning the team’s improvement, he responded humorously: “I don’t believe I’ve accomplished much, to be frank, aside from a successful relocation to Switzerland!
“No, it’s been a privilege collaborating with the team. Clearly, Matteo [Binotto, Sauber’s COO] invested a substantial amount of effort prior to my arrival, and consequently, the initiative gained momentum from that juncture.
“It’s been valuable to simply immerse myself within the team and strive to comprehend its operations, to contribute a degree of direction occasionally, and presently, as I occupied the pitwall at Silverstone, it genuinely feels like it’s coalescing.
Watch: Why Bortoleto Is Already Confident About Audi’s 2026 F1 Potential
“My initial race was Suzuka and the Japanese GP [in April]. I’ve participated in 10 races within approximately 13 weeks. It’s been quite an extensive period. I believe that from the instant we introduced the initial enhancement to the car, the drivers’ self-assurance was immediately apparent; they were capable of pushing the car, they could execute successive qualifying laps, and it positions us to optimise our potential.
“A considerable amount of endeavour transpired before my arrival, and I don’t intend to appropriate recognition for accomplishments. A substantial team is at work here. They implemented significant advancements in terms of equipment but also fostering confidence in the personnel and facets such as pitstops, which exemplify team cohesion. Witnessing a team relaxed while executing proficient pitstops signifies a contented team.”
As F1 teams brace for the most substantial regulation revision in its history encompassing novel chassis and engine specifications, Wheatley acknowledges that, notwithstanding Audi’s endorsement, the team encounters a formidable challenge in surpassing the conventional frontrunners.
However, he affirms that this challenge motivated his departure from Red Bull to engage with the Audi project, which he regards as one of the most captivating occurrences in F1.
“It was approximately a year ago, nearly to the day, that I undertook my job interview. I drove from Goodwood to Southampton Airport where I convened with Audi and we deliberated the project. I’ve been committed ever since,” he stated.
“I grew up observing Audi Quattros navigating through the forest with flames emanating from the exhaust! Audi consistently adopted a distinctive approach, and it’s exceptional to contribute to that trajectory. It constitutes arguably the most significant development in our sport presently. The most compelling positive narrative in sport. It’s exceptional for F1, and everyone should share in the enthusiasm.
Oliver Hoffmann, Head of Technical Development at Audi Sport GmbH, with Markus Duesmann, Chairman of the Board of Management of Audi AG, with the new Audi Sport concept car
Photo by: Mark Sutton / Motorsport Images
“We must adopt a modest perspective regarding the challenge confronting us. Attaining the same calibre as the established teams will pose a difficulty, and surpassing that standard mandates a degree of impetus.
“However, I maintain a firm conviction that we will achieve that. We are already progressing. We have positioned ourselves to capitalise on certain situations involving wet conditions.
“In the near future, I will be donning four rings on a shirt, and I will be the most content team principal in F1.”
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