Wheatley shares perspective on highly debated F1 topic

In light of the the changes FIA is set to introduce in 2026 regarding instant staff transfers between teams, Sauber's team principal Jonathan Wheatley shared his thoughts on the matter.

The issue concerning the relationships between teams—particularly between Red Bull and its sister team Racing Bulls, which share the same ownership—has been a recurring topic in Formula 1 for years.

The focus, in particular, was reignited last month when Red Bull dismissed Christian Horner and promoted Laurent Mekies—who had served as team principal in Faenza over the past year and a half—with immediate effect.

The FIA, having closely examined the events at Red Bull, intends to prevent similar episodes in the future by introducing a mandatory gardening leave starting next season under section F of the 2026 regulations.

The protection of intellectual property has always been an extremely sensitive issue for Formula 1 teams. Key figures within certain teams are typically placed on gardening leave before joining another team, with the ultimate goal of preventing the transfer of sensitive knowledge too early.

Over the years, there have been a few exceptions, such as James Vowles’ move to Williams two years ago and the more recent arrival of Jonathan Wheatley at Sauber, who, alongside Mattia Binotto, has been tasked with leading the transition to Audi ahead of their 2026 debut.

Jonathan Wheatley, team principal at Stake F1 Team

Wheatley weighs in on immediate staff transfers

Wheatley himself, questioned on the matter by media outlets including GPBlog in Hungary, shared his thoughts: ''I think it's hugely important that there's no way that any of our competitors can gain an advantage over another competitor with the movement of staff.''

''So it's not a new subject, I'm sure you're aware, it's been under discussion for some time. And the FIA are treating it seriously.''

''All of us as competitors, it's in our best interest to make sure that there's some robust regulations around that so that people can't take advantage.''

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