Audi Appoints Allan McNish as Racing Director Following Jonathan Wheatley’s Departure From F1 Project

Audi appoints brand veteran Allan McNish as Racing Director to lead trackside operations under Mattia Binotto starting at the Miami Grand Prix.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 24, 2026, 10:38 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from PlanetF1

Strategic Leadership Reshuffle Under Mattia Binotto

The Audi Revolut F1 Team has announced a critical senior appointment as it continues to build its infrastructure ahead of the 2026 technical regulations. Allan McNish, a long-time stalwart of the Audi brand, has been named Racing Director, a move designed to stabilize the team's trackside operations following the exit of Jonathan Wheatley. Mattia Binotto, who has added Team Principal duties to his role as CEO, identified the need for a senior figure to lead sporting operations at the circuit, allowing Binotto to manage the broader strategic and technical integration of the project.

McNish’s Evolution From Factory Driver to Executive

Allan McNish brings a wealth of competitive and managerial experience to the role, having transitioned from a world-class driving career to executive leadership within Audi Sport. A double winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans with Audi and the 2013 World Endurance Champion, McNish previously served as Team Principal for Audi’s successful Formula E venture. Most recently, he held the title of Director of Motorsport Coordination and headed the team’s fledgling driver development program, a responsibility he will maintain alongside his new racing director duties.

Operational Focus for the Miami Grand Prix Debut

The appointment comes at a pivotal moment as Audi seeks to improve its current performance levels, with the team currently sitting on just two points for the 2026 season. McNish is scheduled to begin his trackside duties at next weekend’s Miami Grand Prix. His primary focus will be ensuring that all aspects of race operations are delivering at a competitive level, bridging the gap between the technical partnerships developed at the factory and the practical execution required in the high-pressure environment of the Formula 1 pit lane.