Audi Team Principal Open About Pursuing Max Verstappen for Future F1 Drive

Audi Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley openly discussed the possibility of Max Verstappen joining the team, confirming the Red Bull star remains a top target for the German manufacturer's future Formula 1 ambitions.

Why it matters:

Audi is gearing up for its F1 debut in 2026, taking over the current Sauber team, and its long-term success hinges on attracting top-tier talent. Publicly acknowledging Verstappen as a desired driver signals Audi's serious championship aspirations and could set the stage for a dramatic driver market move once Verstappen's Red Bull contract concludes.

The Details:

• Verstappen as a Top Target: Wheatley, who previously worked with Verstappen during his time at Red Bull, stated, "What kind of team principal would I be if I didn't want Max Verstappen to drive our car?" This clearly positions Verstappen at the top of Audi's wish list.
• Current Driver Lineup: For their initial 2026 entry, Audi has confirmed Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto. However, the focus on Verstappen indicates a long-term strategy to bring in a championship-caliber driver.
• Friendship vs. Business: Wheatley acknowledged his long-standing friendship with Max, Jos, and manager Raymond, but emphasized that "friendship alone is not enough to directly link him with us now," suggesting that any future move would be based on performance and strategic alignment.
• Audi's Ambitious Project: Audi is developing its own power unit, gearbox, and expanding its factory infrastructure across Hinwil and Bicester. The board has set a clear goal: to compete for the World Championship title by 2030.
  • Concept Car and Hybrid Powertrain: The R26 concept car has been unveiled, alongside a new hybrid powertrain from Neuburg.
• Attractive Employer: The scale of Audi's project, combined with budget caps, global reach, and prominent partners, positions them as a highly attractive long-term employer in F1.

What's next:

While Verstappen's current contract with Red Bull extends until the end of 2028, his future beyond that remains a hot topic. Audi's clear ambition and substantial investment could make them a realistic option for Verstappen if the German manufacturer demonstrates its ability to become a title contender by 2030, keeping the door open for a potential blockbuster move.