Audi F1's Adam Baker departs, Christian Foyer takes over engine leadership role

Adam Baker Steps Down as Audi Formula 1 Project Chief in Leadership Reshuffle

In a significant leadership shakeup, Adam Baker, the chief executive of the Audi Formula 1 project, is stepping down from his position by mutual agreement. Audi announced that Christian Foyer would assume Baker’s responsibilities on the engine development side, marking a new chapter in the organization’s preparations for its 2026 Formula 1 debut.

Christian Foyer Appointed Chief Operating Officer

Foyer, who recently joined the management board of Audi Formula Racing, now holds the title of Chief Operating Officer. His appointment coincides with structural changes within the team that led to the elimination of Baker's role. Foyer is tasked with overseeing the development of Audi’s hybrid powertrain, which is being designed at the company’s state-of-the-art facility in Neuburg, Bavaria.

In a statement reflecting on Baker’s contributions, Gernot Doellner, chairman of Audi’s parent company, Volkswagen, expressed gratitude for his service. “We would like to thank Adam Baker for his commitment over the past years," Doellner noted. "He played a decisive role in shaping the overall strategic concept for the entry of Audi into Formula 1 and got the development of the power unit in Neuburg off the ground.”

Doellner Highlights Foyer’s Expertise

Doellner also highlighted the credentials of Christian Foyer and his importance to the project. "With Christian Foyer, we are now bringing a proven expert in process structures in F1 powertrain development into the project. His experience will help ensure the synergistic cooperation and necessary speed on the journey we have embarked upon regarding the debut."

Audi’s Preparation for 2026 Formula 1 Debut

This leadership transition takes place as Audi intensifies its preparations for its factory team debut in 2026, coinciding with the introduction of a new Formula 1 engine era. The company is strategically aligning its operations, with engine development concentrated in Bavaria while additional engineering capabilities are being established in the United Kingdom.

The organizational framework of the Audi F1 project includes prominent names. Former Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto leads as head of the overall initiative, while Jonathan Wheatley, who joined earlier this year from Red Bull, serves as team principal, managing race operations.

Partnership with Sauber Group

The project is underpinned by Audi's collaboration with the Sauber Group, which currently competes in the Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship but has struggled this season, languishing in last place after six races. Sauber is set to transition into the Audi factory team as part of the German automaker’s ambitious bid to become a competitive force in the sport.

Adam Baker’s Tenure and Transition

Adam Baker’s departure marks the end of his second chapter with the Sauber organization, having been part of the team during its BMW-backed tenure in the late 2000s. That era, characterized by both promise and disappointment, ended with BMW’s withdrawal from Formula 1 in 2009.

Foyer’s Mission to Propel Audi Forward

Now, with Christian Foyer at the helm of engine development, Audi is aiming to replicate the speed and precision necessary to ascend the highly competitive ranks of Formula 1.

Up Next