Audi plans new leadership structure after surprising departure of team chief Wheatley.
Formula One constructor Audi is restructuring its management following the unexpected resignation and subsequent dismissal of former project leader Jonathan "Jonny" Wright, who was replaced by Mattia Binotto as head coach in March 2018; however, despite initial hopes for a new director general role after wheatleys exit binottos team has confirmed it will not appoint another chief executive officer.
Key Points
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1[Mar 27] Jonathan Wheatley has departed the F1 team at immediate effect, described as a 'very unexpected' departure.
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2[Mar 27] Audi is actively seeking new leadership support to replace him but explicitly states it does not want another Team Principal (Teamchef).
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3Mattia Binotto will cover all duties in an interim capacity until the organization's structure can be reorganized.
Developments
Jonathan Wheatley served as the team principal of Formula 1's new project for only one year before abruptly resigning in early January after two races with his wife Mattia and CEO Oliver Arao. Binotto stated that personal reasons led to this sudden departure, noting no specific details could be shared regarding their relationship or future plans without breaching confidentiality agreements between the team members' families
Audi Team Principal Mattia Binotto confirmed that Jonathan Wheatley has departed with immediate effect due to personal reasons, a move described as "very unexpected." Consequently, Audi will appoint an interim replacement for the race team while they restructure operations following their recent takeover of Sauber.