Jonathan Wheatley says he would like to sign Max Verstappen for the future Audi Formula 1 project, but insists the focus for now remains on leading Sauber through its transition into the German manufacturer’s works team for 2026.
Verstappen’s name has dominated the driver market through the summer, with speculation linking him to Mercedes during Red Bull’s turbulent mid-season period. But with Red Bull recovering form and the uncertainty of next year’s new regulations looming, the Dutchman ultimately chose to commit to the Milton Keynes team for 2026.
Wheatley worked closely with Verstappen during his 18 years at Red Bull, watching him rise from teenager at Toro Rosso to multiple World Champion. The Englishman now leads Sauber into its Audi era with Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto already confirmed to continue.
Speaking to Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Wheatley made clear that a driver of Verstappen’s calibre is one he would always want in his garage: “Yes, I want Max Verstappen to drive our car. What kind of Team Principal would I be if I didn’t want that?”
Wheatley explained that his long relationship with the Verstappen family is based on honesty and trust, but stressed that this connection does not mean an Audi seat is realistic at present.
“I’m in the fortunate position of having been friends with Max for a long time, but also with his father, Jos, and manager, Raymond,” he said. “And such a friendship develops because you’re always honest and you never betray the trust you’ve built. But I don’t think that’s enough right now to directly link Verstappen to a Formula 1 seat at Audi.”
Audi’s long-term driver strategy remains unchanged for now, with Wheatley’s priority locked on establishing the new works structure before any fantasy signings can be entertained.
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