Bernie Ecclestone Stunned as Jonathan Wheatley Exits Audi F1 Project for Impending Aston Martin Move

Bernie Ecclestone is stunned by Jonathan Wheatley leaving Audi F1, as rumors swirl of a move to Aston Martin to rejoin Adrian Newey in the UK.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 21, 2026, 9:01 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from PlanetF1

Ecclestone Voices Shock at Strategic Departure

The sudden exit of Jonathan Wheatley from his role as Audi F1 team principal has sent shockwaves through the paddock, prompting a rare reaction from former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone. Wheatley, a respected figure who rose to prominence as Red Bull’s sporting director, had only officially linked up with the Audi-Sauber project in April of last year. Speaking to the Swiss-German publication Blick, Ecclestone described the move as "actually impossible," suggesting that only significant personal considerations, such as a desire to return to England, could justify walking away from such a high-profile manufacturer project.

Audi Reshuffles Leadership Under Binotto

In the wake of the "bombshell" announcement, Audi has confirmed that Mattia Binotto will consolidate his power within the organization. Binotto, the former Ferrari team boss who has spearheaded the Audi F1 project since mid-2024, will now add the responsibilities of Team Principal to his existing oversight. The team issued a statement citing "personal reasons" for Wheatley’s departure and thanked him for his contributions, particularly during the transition phase as the squad prepared for its formal entry as a full chassis and power unit manufacturer.

The Pull of the United Kingdom and Aston Martin

Speculation regarding Wheatley’s next move has centered heavily on a return to the UK to join the ambitious Aston Martin Aramco project. Sources close to the situation indicate that while Wheatley was satisfied with his professional standing at Hinwil, the logistical and personal challenges of residing in Switzerland played a decisive role in his decision. This potential move aligns with recent reports that Aston Martin has been actively searching for a new team principal to bolster its senior leadership as it aims for the front of the grid.