Audi Makes Key Appointment: Beat Zehnder Takes on New Role

In a significant move, German automaker Audi has confirmed that Beat Zehnder will be taking up the role of director of signature programs and operations. This announcement comes as the company gears up for its 2026 Formula 1 entry.

Former Red Bull Sporting Director Joins Sauber F1 Team

Meanwhile, Jonathan Wheatley, a former Red Bull sporting director, officially begins his tenure as Sauber F1 team principal today. This development had sparked speculation about Zehnder’s potential departure from the Swiss-based team.

Interestingly, Zehnder has been with Sauber since the 1980s, starting as a mechanic during the team’s partnership with Mercedes-Benz. His journey with the team took an interesting turn when they decided to focus on entering F1 as their own outfit in 1993. From mechanics to logistics, Zehnder made the shift and has been an integral part of the team ever since.

However, he returned to the mechanical side of the business within a year, taking on the roles of team manager and chief mechanic in 1994. He has continued to serve as team manager, now under the title of Sporting Director.

Sauber Clarifies Zehnder’s Future with the Team

To put an end to the speculation surrounding Wheatley’s joining and its potential impact on Zehnder, Sauber has confirmed to PlanetF1.com that the 59-year-old will transition to the role of director of signature programs and operations.

Speaking about his time with Sauber and Wheatley joining the team, Zehnder told Blick:”With Wheatley, we can all be happy that he’s coming.”After 571 races, I won’t be at the controls anymore. But I’ll certainly still be fulfilling tasks in the background.

Wheatley has also commented on his move from Red Bull to Sauber, stating previously:”I am extremely proud to have been a part of the Red Bull Racing journey over the last eighteen years and will leave with many fond memories. However, the opportunity to play an active part in Audi’s entry into Formula One as head of a factory team is a uniquely exciting prospect, and I am looking forward to the challenge.”I am also glad to be working together with Mattia, whom I have known for many years and who is the right person to collaborate with in this exciting project.”