Sauber’s Transformation Under Jonathan Wheatley Ahead of Audi’s Entry
Date: [Insert Date Here]
Jonathan Wheatley, newly appointed team principal of Sauber, is tasked with cultivating a stronger team mentality as the outfit prepares for its transition to Audi in 2026. Having previously served as the sporting director at Red Bull Racing, Wheatley acknowledges that restoring Sauber to competitiveness will require a long-term commitment.
Sauber concluded last season at the bottom of the constructors’ standings and currently mirrors that position after five races in the 2025 season. As a part of Audi’s strategic initiative to revitalize Sauber before its official entry into Formula 1, Wheatley is focused on overhauling the team’s structure and culture.
“It will take years for it to happen,” Wheatley stated, reflecting on the necessary changes at Sauber. He emphasized the disparity in operational scale between Sauber and successful teams like Red Bull, noting that while spirit exists, the defined structures and comprehensive strategies differ significantly.
Wheatley identified a pressing challenge: increasing staff numbers without adequate office space. “There’s a lot of people crammed into small spaces at the moment, but there’s an expansion plan underway,” he added. He believes a campus-like environment will foster teamwork and signal progress to his staff.
Quality over quantity remains a guiding principle as Sauber’s recruitment continues. Wheatley expressed, “I believe that a team is greater than the number of people in it. If the team has the right mental attitude and culture, they can overperform.”
As Sauber embarks on its transformation, this focus on team dynamics and strategic planning is critical for achieving sustained success in the highly competitive landscape of Formula 1.
