Sauber’s Transformation Under Audi: A Mid-Season Progress Report
As Sauber gears up for its future as Audi’s Formula 1 team starting in 2026, team principal Jonathan Wheatley acknowledges the significant strides made this season. Officially stepping into his role in April after leaving Red Bull, Wheatley has already steered the team through promising developments on and off the track.
Key results include Gabriel Bortoleto securing eighth place at the Austrian Grand Prix, marking his first points in Formula 1. More notably, Nico Hulkenberg achieved a long-awaited podium finish at the British Grand Prix, finishing third—a feat not seen for Sauber since 2012.
Reflecting on the team’s recent performance, Wheatley remarked, “It’s been great to absorb myself in the team and help guide our progress. When I sat on the pit wall at Silverstone, it really felt like it’s coming together.” He emphasized the groundwork laid by his predecessor Matteo Binotto and the collective effort of the team to enhance performance and morale, vital for successful pit stops and overall strategy.
With approaching regulatory changes set to reshape Formula 1, Wheatley expressed his enthusiasm for the impending Audi collaboration, stating, “I firmly believe we’re going to be there. We’ve put ourselves in a position to capitalize on opportunities and the momentum is growing.” He recognizes the formidable challenge of competing with established teams and stresses the importance of maintaining humility.
Outlining his motivations for joining Sauber, Wheatley noted, “It was one of the most exciting developments in F1. Audi always did it differently, and it’s fantastic to be part of that journey.” He underscored the project as a defining narrative in the sport’s landscape.
In summary, Sauber’s mid-season developmentssignal a robust foundation for its transition to Audi. As the team confronts upcoming technical changes and intensifies its competitive edge, Wheatley remains optimistic about future challenges, stating, “Very soon I’m going to have four rings on a shirt, and I’ll be the happiest team principal in F1.”
With ongoing upgrades and a strengthened team spirit, Sauber is poised for significant strides in the 2026 season and beyond.
