{"id":1902033,"date":"2026-04-24T15:15:17","date_gmt":"2026-04-24T12:15:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1902033"},"modified":"2026-04-24T15:15:17","modified_gmt":"2026-04-24T12:15:17","slug":"allan-mcnishs-new-f1-role-in-audis-post-jonathan-wheatley-reshuffle-explained","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1902033","title":{"rendered":"Allan McNish\u2019s new F1 role in Audi\u2019s post-Jonathan Wheatley reshuffle explained"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1397556_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;]<\/p>\n<article>\n<header id=\"lbs-article\" class=\"article header article-header section layout layout--article-header\">\n<div class=\"col headline\">\n<div>\n<h1>Allan McNish\u2019s new F1 role in Audi\u2019s post-Jonathan Wheatley reshuffle explained<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>How Allan McNish will fit into Audi&#8217;s project in his new, more senior F1 role.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"section two-column\">\n<div class=\"col article-info\">\n<div>\n<address> Lewis Larkam <\/address>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div><time datetime=\"2026-04-24T16:15:17+01:00\">24 Apr 2026<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col article-actions\">\n<div class=\"block block-better-social-sharing-buttons block-social-sharing-buttons-block\">\n<div class=\"social-sharing-buttons\"><span class=\"ssb-title\"> Share<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<div id=\"lbs-content\" class=\"content wide-two-column-sticky section layout layout--wide-two-column-sticky\">\n<div class=\"col first-column\">\n<div>\n<div>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1397556_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1397556_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1397556_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1397556_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1397556_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1397556_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1397556_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1397556_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1397556_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>McNish will be number two to Binotto at Audi<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-preferred-source\">\n<div class=\"preferred-source-cta\">  Add as a preferred source <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>Audi has finally reorganised its Formula 1 team following the recent and unexpected departure of Jonathan Wheatley.<\/p>\n<p>Wheatley\u2019s sudden exit as team principal last month shocked Audi and left the German squad in a state of flux two races into the 2026 F1 season.<\/p>\n<p>Audi project head Mattia Binotto initially stepped into the role of chief executive officer and team principal to take on some of Wheatley\u2019s responsibilities as an interim solution.<\/p>\n<p>Binotto made it clear at the Japanese Grand Prix that he was not looking for a direct team principal replacement for Wheatley, but instead a figure who could take on many of duties he held so that Binotto could focus on wider leadership responsibilities.<\/p>\n<p>Audi has now found its solution, with long-time Audi employee Allan McNish named racing director, as <em>Crash.net <\/em>had anticipated.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>The new role will see McNish effectively take over day-to-day running of the F1 team, beginning at the next race, the Miami Grand Prix on 3 May.<\/p>\n<p>McNish\u2019s position is an expansive one that will see him oversee sporting matters, engineering coordination, driver management, race strategy and garage operations. He will also handle on-track media and partner activities.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-59a54fe4ba7e8cb97c699eeb4f6a2316a8c5c5288946872e06478eda228b3e75\">  Audi F1 team confirms Allan McNish as new racing director   Allan McNish set for new racing director role at Audi F1 team <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>In addition, McNish will continue in his role as the head of Audi\u2019s young driver programme.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;This is a marque that means a lot to me and it is an honour to be able to represent Audi and our partners on the most prestigious stage in motorsports,\u201d McNish said following the confirmation of his role.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;This is an exciting challenge at a pivotal moment in the history of Audi and F1, and I am looking forward to contributing even more directly to our trackside performance.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-ac4c0f044586926c6adae27c6d2a727b90d68a4200564e4b8628f628356e23c3\">  Audi verdict on F1 debut results   Audi racing legend tipped as F1 team principal option after Wheatley exit <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>&#8220;The project we are building is ambitious, and my focus will be on ensuring that all aspects of our race operations are delivering at their most competitive level and continuously improving.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>It is not the first time that McNish has run a racing team. He was the team principal of Audi\u2019s Formula E team and proved himself to be a shrewd operator, leading the squad to the teams\u2019 championship in the 2017-2018 season.<\/p>\n<p>The 56-year-old Scott has a wealth of motorsport experience and enjoyed a hugely successful sportscar career. He is well respected and highly regarded within the racing world.<\/p>\n<p>A former Toyota F1 driver in 2002, McNish\u2019s best achievements came at the Le Mans 24 Hours, which he won three times and twice with Audi.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Allan brings an exceptional combination of racing experience, technical understanding and leadership to this role,\u201d Binotto said.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cHe has been a central part of the motorsport structure of Audi for many years and has played a key role in shaping our preparation for F1, not least with his work around technical partnerships.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>For Audi, this marks the fourth management restructure since the project was announced in 2022, but it was one that should provide the team with some much-needed stability after recent turmoil.<\/p>\n<p>It is a move that makes a lot of sense, with McNish seen as a perfect fit to fill the gaps Wheatley left behind.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<h2>In this article<\/h2>\n<div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">F1<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Audi<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-next-prev\">\n<div class=\"next-prev-pager contextual-region\">\n<div class=\"items\">\n<div class=\"item prev\">\n<h3>  Previous<\/h3>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\"> Audi F1 team confirms Le Mans legend Allan McNish as racing director<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/a266186_medium.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/a266186_medium.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/a266186_medium.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/a266186_medium.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/a266186_medium.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/a266186_medium.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/a266186_medium.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/a266186_medium.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/a266186_medium.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article-author-block block block-configurable-views-block\">\n<div class=\"author-view grid-view js-view-dom-id-6458039df896cd1b18abd714334aa814487e72e7105e8d883aa702fb6c905e8d\">\n<div class=\"card user default\">\n<div class=\"image\"> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/1bc46a82-ac76-40ea-9cf5-d309b802b0ef_1.jpeg?height=270&amp;format=webp 270w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/1bc46a82-ac76-40ea-9cf5-d309b802b0ef_1.jpeg?height=180&amp;format=webp 180w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/1bc46a82-ac76-40ea-9cf5-d309b802b0ef_1.jpeg?height=90&amp;format=webp 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"info\">\n<div class=\"header\">\n<div class=\"text\">\n<div class=\"name\">Lewis Larkam<\/div>\n<div class=\"role\">F1 Editor<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"desc\">\n<p>Lewis regularly attends Grands Prix for Crash.net around the world. Often reporting on the action from the ground, Lewis tells the stories of the people who matter in the sport.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"views-element-container block block-views-blockrelated-content-related-content-block\">\n<h3>More News<\/h3>\n<div class=\"grid-view grid-2 js-view-dom-id-f8a645fec2941be0afb11df838ae20adec4566269896147174749ab7469f844b\">\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  Feature <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Could Christian Horner answer Audi\u2019s F1 needs after its recent blow?<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775659168\"> 08\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202505180042.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Former Red Bull boss Horner is seeking a return to F1 \" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>New destination for Christian Horner F1 return tipped by race winner<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775570324\"> 07\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1327500_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Horner has been out of a job in F1 since being sacked by Red Bull in July last year\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>F1 veteran brands energy management \u2018fun but weird and frustrating\u2019<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775298600\"> 04\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404700_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Hulkenberg, Audi, Start, F1, Japan, 2026\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Is one of F1\u2019s new teams at risk of losing momentum after race cancellations?<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775207940\"> 03\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404756_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Audi sits eighth in the constructors' championship after scoring two points\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Audi\u2019s glaring F1 2026 weakness can\u2019t be fixed anytime soon<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775058292\"> 01\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/a266072_medium.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Bortoleto has scored Audi's only points so far\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Audi F1 restructure plan after shock Jonathan Wheatley exit revealed<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1774964780\"> 31\/03\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1404377_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Former Ferrari boss Binotto is covering Audi team principal duties\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col second-column\">\n<div class=\"sticky\">\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>How Allan McNish will fit into Audi&#8217;s project in his new, more senior F1 role.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>Audi has finally reorganised its Formula 1 team following the recent and unexpected departure of Jonathan Wheatley.<\/p>\n<p>Wheatley\u2019s sudden exit as team principal last month shocked Audi and left the German squad in a state of flux two races into the 2026 F1 season.<\/p>\n<p>Audi project head Mattia Binotto initially stepped into the role of chief executive officer and team principal to take on some of Wheatley\u2019s responsibilities as an interim solution.<\/p>\n<p>Binotto made it clear at the Japanese Grand Prix that he was not looking for a direct team principal replacement for Wheatley, but instead a figure who could take on many of duties he held so that Binotto could focus on wider leadership responsibilities.<\/p>\n<p>Audi has now found its solution, with long-time Audi employee Allan McNish named racing director, as <em>Crash.net <\/em>had anticipated.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>The new role will see McNish effectively take over day-to-day running of the F1 team, beginning at the next race, the Miami Grand Prix on 3 May.<\/p>\n<p>McNish\u2019s position is an expansive one that will see him oversee sporting matters, engineering coordination, driver management, race strategy and garage operations. He will also handle on-track media and partner activities.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-59a54fe4ba7e8cb97c699eeb4f6a2316a8c5c5288946872e06478eda228b3e75\">  Audi F1 team confirms Allan McNish as new racing director   Allan McNish set for new racing director role at Audi F1 team <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>In addition, McNish will continue in his role as the head of Audi\u2019s young driver programme.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;This is a marque that means a lot to me and it is an honour to be able to represent Audi and our partners on the most prestigious stage in motorsports,\u201d McNish said following the confirmation of his role.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;This is an exciting challenge at a pivotal moment in the history of Audi and F1, and I am looking forward to contributing even more directly to our trackside performance.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-ac4c0f044586926c6adae27c6d2a727b90d68a4200564e4b8628f628356e23c3\">  Audi verdict on F1 debut results   Audi racing legend tipped as F1 team principal option after Wheatley exit <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>&#8220;The project we are building is ambitious, and my focus will be on ensuring that all aspects of our race operations are delivering at their most competitive level and continuously improving.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>It is not the first time that McNish has run a racing team. He was the team principal of Audi\u2019s Formula E team and proved himself to be a shrewd operator, leading the squad to the teams\u2019 championship in the 2017-2018 season.<\/p>\n<p>The 56-year-old Scott has a wealth of motorsport experience and enjoyed a hugely successful sportscar career. He is well respected and highly regarded within the racing world.<\/p>\n<p>A former Toyota F1 driver in 2002, McNish\u2019s best achievements came at the Le Mans 24 Hours, which he won three times and twice with Audi.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Allan brings an exceptional combination of racing experience, technical understanding and leadership to this role,\u201d Binotto said.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cHe has been a central part of the motorsport structure of Audi for many years and has played a key role in shaping our preparation for F1, not least with his work around technical partnerships.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>For Audi, this marks the fourth management restructure since the project was announced in 2022, but it was one that should provide the team with some much-needed stability after recent turmoil.<\/p>\n<p>It is a move that makes a lot of sense, with McNish seen as a perfect fit to fill the gaps Wheatley left behind.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>Audi has finally reorganised its Formula 1 team following the recent and unexpected departure of Jonathan Wheatley.<\/p>\n<p>Wheatley\u2019s sudden exit as team principal last month shocked Audi and left the German squad in a state of flux two races into the 2026 F1 season.<\/p>\n<p>Audi project head Mattia Binotto initially stepped into the role of chief executive officer and team principal to take on some of Wheatley\u2019s responsibilities as an interim solution.<\/p>\n<p>Binotto made it clear at the Japanese Grand Prix that he was not looking for a direct team principal replacement for Wheatley, but instead a figure who could take on many of duties he held so that Binotto could focus on wider leadership responsibilities.<\/p>\n<p>Audi has now found its solution, with long-time Audi employee Allan McNish named racing director, as <em>Crash.net <\/em>had anticipated.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>The new role will see McNish effectively take over day-to-day running of the F1 team, beginning at the next race, the Miami Grand Prix on 3 May.<\/p>\n<p>McNish\u2019s position is an expansive one that will see him oversee sporting matters, engineering coordination, driver management, race strategy and garage operations. He will also handle on-track media and partner activities.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-59a54fe4ba7e8cb97c699eeb4f6a2316a8c5c5288946872e06478eda228b3e75\">  Audi F1 team confirms Allan McNish as new racing director   Allan McNish set for new racing director role at Audi F1 team <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>In addition, McNish will continue in his role as the head of Audi\u2019s young driver programme.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;This is a marque that means a lot to me and it is an honour to be able to represent Audi and our partners on the most prestigious stage in motorsports,\u201d McNish said following the confirmation of his role.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;This is an exciting challenge at a pivotal moment in the history of Audi and F1, and I am looking forward to contributing even more directly to our trackside performance.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-ac4c0f044586926c6adae27c6d2a727b90d68a4200564e4b8628f628356e23c3\">  Audi verdict on F1 debut results   Audi racing legend tipped as F1 team principal option after Wheatley exit <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>&#8220;The project we are building is ambitious, and my focus will be on ensuring that all aspects of our race operations are delivering at their most competitive level and continuously improving.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>It is not the first time that McNish has run a racing team. He was the team principal of Audi\u2019s Formula E team and proved himself to be a shrewd operator, leading the squad to the teams\u2019 championship in the 2017-2018 season.<\/p>\n<p>The 56-year-old Scott has a wealth of motorsport experience and enjoyed a hugely successful sportscar career. He is well respected and highly regarded within the racing world.<\/p>\n<p>A former Toyota F1 driver in 2002, McNish\u2019s best achievements came at the Le Mans 24 Hours, which he won three times and twice with Audi.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Allan brings an exceptional combination of racing experience, technical understanding and leadership to this role,\u201d Binotto said.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cHe has been a central part of the motorsport structure of Audi for many years and has played a key role in shaping our preparation for F1, not least with his work around technical partnerships.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>For Audi, this marks the fourth management restructure since the project was announced in 2022, but it was one that should provide the team with some much-needed stability after recent turmoil.<\/p>\n<p>It is a move that makes a lot of sense, with McNish seen as a perfect fit to fill the gaps Wheatley left behind.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;http:\/\/crash.net\/f1\/news\/1093411\/1\/allan-mcnishs-new-f1-role-audis-post-jonathan-wheatley-reshuffle-explained&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1397556_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;] Allan McNish\u2019s new F1 role in Audi\u2019s post-Jonathan Wheatley reshuffle explained How Allan McNish will fit into Audi&#8217;s project in his new, more senior F1 role. Lewis Larkam 24 Apr 2026 Share McNish will be number two to Binotto at Audi Add as a preferred source Audi has finally reorganised its Formula [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[47,226],"class_list":["post-1902033","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crash-net","tag-crawlmanager"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1902033","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1902033"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1902033\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1902033"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1902033"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1902033"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}