The Audi F1 project has once again entered a period of significant transformation with engine chief Adam Baker leaving the organization by mutual agreement.
The latest leadership changes comes as the German manufacturer continues to reshape its management structure in the run-up to its highly anticipated debut in the 2026 Formula 1 season.
Baker’s exit after four years at the helm of Audi Formula Racing GmbH marks a pivotal moment in its journey to establish itself as a competitive force in the world’s premier motorsport series.
Adam Baker’s tenure with the Audi F1 project was marked by his instrumental role in laying the foundations for the company’s entry into Formula 1. Having previously worked with the BMW Sauber team Baker brought a wealth of experience and a strategic vision that was crucial in shaping Audi’s approach to the sport.
Under his leadership the development of the power unit at Neuburg was set in motion, a key milestone given the technical demands of the new engine regulations that will take effect in 2026.
Audi’s engines, being built in Bavaria, are central to the brand’s ambition to make a strong impression in F1’s forthcoming hybrid era.
The decision to part ways with Baker was described as mutual and Audi’s official communications have been careful to acknowledge his contributions.
Gernot Döllner, chairman of the Volkswagen-owned brand, expressed gratitude for Baker’s commitment and strategic input, emphasizing his decisive role in getting the power unit project off the ground.
However, the organization has determined that the CEO role is now obsolete as part of a broader restructuring designed to streamline leadership and foster greater synergy across the team’s operations.
In place of Baker, Christian Foyer has joined the Audi F1 project as Chief Operating Officer, a newly created position that reflects Audi’s evolving needs as it accelerates preparations for its F1 debut.
Foyer, described as a proven expert in process structures in F1 powertrain development, brings with him a reputation for organizational efficiency and technical acumen. His appointment is intended to ensure that the Audi F1 project benefits from the kind of synergistic cooperation and speed that are essential for success in the highly competitive world of Formula 1.
Foyer’s responsibilities will encompass the management of the engine side of the project with a particular focus on optimizing development activities at the Hinwil and Neuburg facilities as well as overseeing the establishment of a future technical center in England.
This international footprint underscores Audi’s commitment to leveraging global expertise and infrastructure as it seeks to build a world-class F1 operation.
At the same time, the leadership structure of the Audi F1 project has been further consolidated under Mattia Binotto, the former Ferrari team principal, who now assumes the expanded role of Head of Audi F1 Project.
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Binotto’s promotion reflects Audi’s confidence in his ability to oversee not only the technical development of the car and powertrain but also the broader strategic direction of the team.
Mattia Binotto’s extensive experience at Ferrari where he guided the team through complex regulatory changes and intense competition is expected to be invaluable as Audi aims to hit the ground running in 2026.
The changes do not stop there. Jonathan Wheatley who recently joined Sauber from Red Bull will serve as team principal and management board spokesperson at Sauber Motorsport AG, the entity that will become the Audi factory team following the complete takeover of Sauber.
Wheatley’s trackside leadership will be critical in translating Audi’s technical and organizational ambitions into on-track performance.
Meanwhile, Stefan Dreyer, a long-time Audi engineer, will continue in his role as Chief Technical Officer and also take on the additional responsibility of spokesperson for the management board of Audi Formula Racing GmbH.
