Audi finds 'successor' to ex-team boss Wheatley within its own ranks

The appointment of McNish does not come as a surprise. After Wheatley unexpectedly packed his bags a month ago, the Scot was quickly mentioned as an ideal candidate for a promotion within the new Formula 1 team.

McNish has only been in charge of the German outfit’s Driver Development Programme since this season. Although he has only held this position for a short time, he is a very well-known and respected figure within Audi. He also won the 24 Hours of Le Mans with the German brand, among other achievements. It is no coincidence that McNish previously served as an ambassador for the brand.

Mattia Binotto retains overall leadership of the Formula 1 project, but he is handing over several temporarily assumed tasks to McNish. For instance, the Scot will become the person who talks to the media, and as Race Director he will also be responsible for the team during a Grand Prix weekend.

The intention is for McNish to start in his new role as early as Miami. Leadership is nothing new for McNish, as he previously led Audi’s now-defunct Formula E project.