Jonathan Wheatley joined Audi in March last year but is wanted by Aston Martin

Aston Martin Target Audi Boss Wheatley in F1 Shake-Up

Aston Martin Make Approach for Audi Boss Wheatley

Aston Martin F1 Team have made an approach for Jonathan Wheatley, currently leading Audi F1 Team, as they look to overhaul their struggling operation.

Team owner Lawrence Stroll has reportedly offered Wheatley a senior leadership role to run the race team.

Strategic Move: Supporting Newey

The plan would see Wheatley working under:

Adrian Newey

Newey is currently acting as both:

Team principal
Managing technical partner

👉 Bringing in Wheatley would allow Newey to focus fully on car design, his core strength.

Why Wheatley Could Leave Audi

Wheatley only joined Audi a year ago, based in Hinwil, Switzerland, but:

A return to the UK is said to be appealing
Contract complications could delay any move

Audi have not confirmed any change, stating no official update.

Aston Martin’s Crisis Start

Aston Martin’s push for restructuring comes after a disastrous start to the season:

Bottom of the constructors’ standings
Car lacking competitiveness
Development delays due to wind tunnel issues

Despite Newey’s arrival, performance has not improved as expected.

Major Problem: Honda Engine Issues

Wheatley (centre) and Newey (right) worked together at Red Bull for 20 years

The biggest concern lies with their engine partner:

Honda

Key problems include:

Severe vibrations damaging batteries
Lack of power and energy recovery
Inability to reach full hybrid output (350kW)

These issues have heavily impacted race performance.

Alonso’s Struggles Highlight Issues

Veteran driver Fernando Alonso has already suffered:

Withdrawal from the Chinese Grand Prix
Physical discomfort due to vibrations

He stated:

“I was struggling to feel my hands and feet.”

Despite strong starts, Alonso has been unable to defend positions due to power deficits.

Leadership Tensions and Alternatives

Other developments include:

Christian Horner meeting Stroll
Newey reportedly opposing Horner’s appointment

Wheatley, who worked with Newey for 20 years at Red Bull, is seen as a more suitable option.

Ongoing Instability at Audi

Audi’s F1 project is also facing internal changes:

Dual leadership with Mattia Binotto
Multiple restructures in less than two years
Previous CEO Adam Baker departure

Wheatley’s potential exit would mark another major shift.

What Happens Next?

Key uncertainties remain:

Will Wheatley accept the offer?
How long would contract negotiations take?
Can Aston Martin recover performance quickly?

👉 The move could be a turning point in Aston Martin’s long-term F1 ambitions.