Red Bull’s turbulence is far from over. After success in the last three seasons, the Milton Keynes-based outfit is soaring with enthusiasm. The team kickstarted the 2024 season with expectations of yet another dominating run. It all started well until an internal power struggle entangled the defending champions. Furthermore, when the team honcho was accused of sexual misconduct by a female colleague, the situation became increasingly peculiar.
Thus, this chaos catalyzed a chain reaction as key personnel started leaving the setup. The biggest exit of the 2024 season was Adrian Newey, an unsung hero of Red Bull’s success. While the Austria-based squad managed to contain the damage, another key departure reignited the controversy.
Wheatley Joins Sauber/ Audi As Leader, Departing Red Bull After 18 Years
In a recent F1 development, Audi has signed Jonathan Wheatley to lead the team in the 2025 season. The long-term deal will end Whetaley’s Red Bull tenure after almost two decades. The RBR Sporting Director joined the team in 2005 and played a crucial role in building it from scratch. Although his F1 career started in 1991, the British engineer got the limelight after a double title victory with Renault in the 2000s. The confirmation from Red Bull stated he would leave the setup in 2025. This was the second massive signing by Audi in a week. The team inked a deal with Mattia Binotto to be the team’s chief technical officer.
Moreover, it wasn’t a shocker for the F1 community as Whestley’s exit was always on the cards. Things have gone downhill since the internal chaos struck the energy drink-based squad. Also, McLaren’s CEO Zak Brown made a bold revelation about RBR members, claiming the CVs are flying across the paddock. This move might be seen as confirmation of his statement. However, despite the departure of the British engineer, the RBR team remains confident in making the most out of this opportunity.
Christian Horner’s Farewell Message For Jonathan Wheatley
Christian Horner highlighted the significant contributions of Jonathan, who has been with the team for over 18 years. Jonathan played a crucial role in securing six World Constructors’ Titles and seven World Drivers’ Championships, first as Team Manager and later as Sporting Director, marking an indelible impact on the team’s history.
Jonathan will continue in his position until the end of the 2024 season, as the team aims to defend both the World Drivers’ and World Constructors’ Titles. Following this, he will take a period of gardening leave in 2025. Horner expressed gratitude on behalf of Oracle Red Bull Racing and Red Bull Technology, extending their best wishes to Jonathan in his new role.
The team acknowledges the substantial depth and talent, viewing this transition as an opportunity to elevate others. Horner mentioned that a new team structure would be announced in the coming weeks.