Mattia Binotto is to use his experience in Formula 1 to lead Audi to success – Both sides are aware that this will not happen overnight
As is well known, Audi will officially enter Formula One in 2026 and take over the former Sauber team. The power unit will be developed in Neuburg, while the chassis will continue to be developed in Hinwil, Switzerland. Mattia Binotto, former Ferrari team principal, has been at the helm of the project since the summer.
“I see the experience I have gained over the years as an advantage,“ the Italian explains in an interview with auto motor und sport. But just as he has to adapt – ‘in a different country, with different people and a different culture’ – Audi also has to go its own way.
”I’m not saying that everything in the past was always right, but it is a reference. But our goal must be to go our own way. That’s why we have to do some things differently,” says the former Ferrari team principal.
A major difference between Audi and Ferrari is the geographical separation between engine and chassis development. ‘It can be an advantage to have everything under one roof,’ admits Binotto. However, he says, it is not impossible to be successful and fight for the world championship under these conditions.
“History has shown that you can also win titles when the car and the engine are not developed at the same location. It is up to us to prove that,” says Binotto.
New rules an advantage for Audi?
The 55-year-old spends most of his time in Hinwil: “There is more to do there, with the construction of the team and the factory. And normally, the car contributes more to the lap time than the engine.”
Nevertheless, it is possible that the first few years under the new rules from 2026 onwards will be dominated by the engine. “That is quite possible. But we shouldn’t worry, even if a manufacturer might get off to an early lead.”
Binotto does not necessarily see it as an advantage that Audi is starting the new regulatory cycle as a newcomer. “I would say it could also be an advantage for the top teams. A well-rehearsed organization could possibly handle the task better at the beginning,” he says, with the rule changes in mind.
“We are starting now and learning – time will tell what or who will have an advantage.” In the case of Audi, the division of labor between him – as head of the Formula One project – and team boss Jonathan Wheatley is clearly regulated.
“He is responsible for all processes at the racetrack, for managing the drivers, communication, marketing and sponsors. I’m more concerned with what happens in the factory. So team building, vehicle development and processes.”
Binotto praises Audi’s commitment
Decisions on driver selection would be made jointly – also involving Audi board member Gernot Döllner. “We will decide this together. We have a similar background and therefore we are on the same wavelength. In any case, together with Gernot Döllner.”
He supports the project wherever he can, says Binotto, adding: “Audi is fully behind it, and I don’t think anyone doubts that more.” The participation of the Qatar sovereign wealth fund was an important message, he says, which once again underlines the group’s long-term commitment internally.
He also emphasizes that Audi is aware of the challenge of Formula One despite its previous racing successes: “When I had my first discussions with Audi, I got the impression that we have a clear and shared understanding of the situation. That it takes time to be successful.”
Döllner also made this clear and emphasized the need to set realistic and long-term goals. “Audi is an ambitious brand, but they also think rationally. They understand the magnitude of the task,” Binotto affirms.
