Mattia Binotto, the former Ferrari team principal, has been appointed as the head of Audi's Formula 1 project, replacing Andreas Seidl after just 19 months in the role. This management shake-up comes amid concerns regarding the performance of the Sauber team, which Audi has taken over as its foundation for a 2026 F1 entry. Gernot Döllner, Audi's new chairman, emphasized the need for clear management structures and efficient decision-making processes to enhance the team's autonomy and independence. Binotto, who brings over 25 years of F1 experience, officially takes on the roles of chief operating officer and chief technology officer starting August 1. Seidl's departure follows frustrations over the slow progress in reshaping Sauber and securing a second driver, with the team currently sitting last in the constructors' championship. The restructuring aims to bring Audi's F1 initiative up to competitive speed ahead of their entry in 2026.