Horner Supports Wheatley’s Departure as Red Bull Prepares for Key Changes
As the 2025 Formula 1 season begins, Red Bull Racing is navigating a period of significant transformation. With the final year of their partnership with Honda, a revised driver lineup, and crucial management changes, the team is bracing for a challenging yet opportunistic future. Among these changes is the upcoming departure of sporting director Jonathan Wheatley, who will become team principal of Audi’s F1 team in 2026.
Wheatley, a key figure in Red Bull’s sustained success, is currently on gardening leave, a mandatory break preventing him from immediately transitioning to his new role at Sauber (soon to be Audi). Despite the notable loss, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has openly supported Wheatley’s decision, describing it as an exciting career milestone.
Speaking with RacingNews365, Horner expressed his encouragement for Wheatley’s move to Audi. “The team principal role is a significant responsibility, with a strong focus on trackside operations. I’m confident he’ll bring great value to Sauber,” Horner said, referring to Wheatley’s future partnership with Mattia Binotto, Audi’s technical head.
Horner also acknowledged that Wheatley had long harbored aspirations of leading an F1 team. “This has been a career goal for Jonathan for quite some time. When the Audi opportunity arose, I encouraged him to take it. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance, and I told him he would regret not pursuing it,” Horner shared.
While Wheatley’s departure marks the end of an era, Horner sees it as an opportunity for growth within Red Bull’s ranks. “This transition opens doors for others in the team to rise and showcase their potential,” he noted.
The changes at Red Bull extend beyond management. Following the departure of Sergio Perez, junior driver Liam Lawson has been promoted to partner Max Verstappen for the 2025 season. This decision reflects Red Bull’s commitment to nurturing young talent as they navigate a new chapter in the team’s history.
Red Bull is also facing broader shifts, including Adrian Newey stepping back from his active role and Honda exiting the sport at the end of 2025. Despite these challenges, the reigning champions remain focused on maintaining their competitive edge.
Horner emphasized that while these adjustments signal a new era for the team, they also bring fresh energy and opportunities. “The team has always thrived on evolution. These changes, while significant, are part of the natural progression in Formula 1,” he said.
Wheatley’s move to Audi is poised to make an impact, and with Horner’s full backing, the transition reflects a shared understanding of growth and ambition within the sport. As Red Bull embraces these shifts, they aim to balance their storied legacy with a forward-thinking approach to leadership and performance.
