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Audi Centralizes Management Structure For Formula 1 Project With Key Appointments Ahead Of 2026 Season
Mattia Binotto has been appointed as the Head of Audi's Formula 1 project. He will oversee development at facilities in Hinwil, Neuburg an der Donau, and a future technical centre in England. Jonathan Wheatley will manage race operations as Team Principal. Audi aims to unify its Formula 1 operations for better integration and efficiency, with a focus on seamless coordination between the race car and powertrain.
Christian Foyer joined Audi Formula Racing GmbH as Chief Operating Officer on May 1, 2025. His role involves overseeing operational processes within the F1 hybrid powertrain division. Foyer, born in Aachen in 1977, has extensive experience in combustion engines and project management across various F1 teams. He succeeds Adam Baker, who is departing by mutual agreement.
Stefan Dreyer continues to lead power unit development in Neuburg as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and now serves as spokesperson for the AFR management board. The CEO position has been removed to streamline reporting lines within the organisation. This restructuring aims to enhance synergy and speed in preparation for Audi's Formula 1 debut.
Audi's entry into Formula 1 is set for 2026 with a factory team featuring a hybrid drive system developed in Germany. The team will operate from two main locations: Audi Formula Racing GmbH in Neuburg an der Donau for Power Unit development, and Hinwil in Switzerland for race car development and operations. A technology centre will also be established in the UK.
The new FIA regulations coming into effect in 2026 have influenced Audi's decision to enter Formula 1. These rules will mandate sustainable fuels and increase the electric component of hybrid drive units to nearly 50%. This aligns with Audi's commitment to sustainable mobility solutions.
Jonathan Wheatley took on his role as Team Principal at Sauber Motorsport AG in April. He collaborates closely with Mattia Binotto to guide the transformation of the racing team. Wheatley's responsibilities include managing future race operations for Audi's F1 team and representing Audi at strategic forums within Formula 1.
Audi Group is a leading manufacturer of premium automobiles and motorcycles, operating across more than 100 markets globally. In 2024, they delivered over 1.7 million vehicles under various brands including Bentley, Lamborghini, and Ducati. The group achieved €64.5 billion in revenue with an operating profit of €3.9 billion that year.
Gernot Döllner, Chairman of AUDI AG’s Board of Management, expressed gratitude towards Adam Baker for his contributions to Audi's strategic entry into Formula 1. "We would like to thank Adam Baker for his commitment over the past years," he stated, acknowledging Baker's pivotal role in developing the power unit at Neuburg.
Formula 1 is recognised globally as a premier motorsport platform due to its extensive reach and influence. Audi’s participation underscores their ambition to leverage this platform while adhering to new environmental standards set by FIA regulations from 2026 onwards.
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