Story perspectives

Jonathan Wheatley Exits Audi, Eyes Aston Martin Role

3/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

Jonathan Wheatley, Audi's F1 team principal, has left the role with immediate effect.
He is reportedly being considered to replace Adrian Newey, Aston Martin's technical partner, as team principal.
Aston Martin struggles at the bottom of the constructors' championship.
Both Audi and Aston Martin issued statements that they neither confirm nor deny Wheatley's move.
If he joins Aston Martin, Wheatley would need to serve gardening leave due to Audi contract.

History

Historical Context

In 2021, Formula One saw significant changes, including Aston Martin's return after a 60-year absence and the introduction of a budget cap of $145 million to address financial pressures from the COVID-19 pandemic. The season culminated in a controversial finale, where Max Verstappen won his first championship, marking the first time since 2008 that the champion driver was not from the Constructors' Championship-winning team.

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Story summary

Jonathan Wheatley, Audi's F1 team principal, has left the role with immediate effect.
He is reportedly being considered to replace Adrian Newey, Aston Martin's technical partner, as team principal.
Aston Martin struggles at the bottom of the constructors' championship.
Both Audi and Aston Martin issued statements that they neither confirm nor deny Wheatley's move.
If he joins Aston Martin, Wheatley would need to serve gardening leave due to Audi contract.

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