Audi Shakes Up F1 Management: CEO Exits Amid Major Restructuring
In a shocking turn of events, Audi has announced a massive shakeup within their Formula 1 team with the departure of chief executive officer Adam Baker. The German powerhouse is gearing up to make a splash in F1 by taking over Sauber next season, but not without significant changes in their leadership structure.
The exit of Baker has paved the way for Mattia Binotto to step into the role of head of the Audi F1 project. Binotto, who previously served as the team’s chief operating and technical officer, will now spearhead the team’s efforts as they prepare to enter the high-stakes world of Formula 1 in 2026.
Despite the management reshuffle, key figures like Binotto and team principal Jonathan Wheatley will retain their positions. Binotto will be in charge of the overall design of the car, while Wheatley, a former Red Bull strategist, will oversee the team’s operations trackside.
Joining the Audi F1 project as the chief operating officer is Christian Foyer, who will now take on the operational responsibilities previously handled by Baker. With these changes in place, Audi is leaving no stone unturned as they gear up for their F1 debut.
Binotto’s responsibilities will extend to overseeing the operations at the new F1 team’s power-unit base in Germany and their car design and manufacturing base in Switzerland. Additionally, Audi is on the lookout for a base in England to house a small design team, tapping into the rich pool of talent in the region known as ‘motorsport valley.’
The F1 landscape has been abuzz with discussions about the potential return of V10 engines, a prospect that has been shelved for now. This decision has been closely watched by Audi, whose entry into the sport was initially sparked by the 2026 power unit rules. The FIA has taken steps to ensure that all participants are safeguarded against abrupt changes that could jeopardize the stability of the sport.
As Audi revs up for their F1 venture, the stage is set for a thrilling new chapter in the world of motorsport. With a revamped leadership team and ambitious plans on the horizon, all eyes will be on Audi as they prepare to make their mark on the prestigious Formula 1 circuit.
