Audi's Ambitious Pursuit: Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley Targets Max Verstappen for F1 Future
Audi's new F1 Team Principal, Jonathan Wheatley, has made it clear he intends to pursue Max Verstappen once his Red Bull contract expires in 2028. As Audi prepares to enter F1 next year with its own power unit, this ambitious target signals their serious championship aspirations, aiming to become a top contender by 2030 and reshape the driver market.
Audi, set to enter Formula 1 next year by taking over the Sauber-run team, is already thinking big. Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley has openly expressed his desire to bring three-time world champion Max Verstappen to the German manufacturer in the coming years, signaling Audi's high ambitions as they develop their own power unit for the new regulatory era.
Why it matters:
Audi's entry into F1 represents a significant commitment from a major automotive brand. Targeting a driver of Verstappen's caliber from the outset indicates a serious intent to compete at the very top, challenging established teams and potentially reshaping the driver market in the future. Securing a world champion like Verstappen would instantly elevate Audi's status and accelerate their championship aspirations.
The details:
- New F1 Entry: Audi will debut in F1 next year, assuming control of the Sauber team and producing its own power unit.
- Leadership: Jonathan Wheatley, formerly Red Bull's sporting director and a key figure in Verstappen's championship successes, now heads Audi's F1 operations.
- Verstappen Target: Wheatley explicitly stated, "Yes, I want Max Verstappen to drive our car," highlighting his ambition to sign the Dutch superstar.
- Current Roster: Audi has already signed Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto for their inaugural season.
- Long-term Goal: Audi has set an aggressive target to contend for F1 world championships by the 2030 season, a timeframe that aligns with the expiration of Verstappen's current Red Bull contract at the end of 2028.
- Personal Connection: Wheatley maintains a long-standing friendship with Max, his father Jos, and manager Raymond, built on honesty and trust, though he acknowledges this alone isn't enough to secure Verstappen's signing.
What's next:
While securing Verstappen for 2029 or beyond is a monumental task, Audi's public declaration sets the stage for a compelling narrative in the coming seasons. Their ability to develop a competitive car and power unit will be crucial in attracting top-tier talent like Verstappen. As the 2026 regulations approach and driver contracts come up for renewal, the F1 landscape could see significant shifts, with Audi positioning itself as a potential major player in the driver market.