P1racenews AI automatic summary:
As Audi prepares to join the F1 grid in 2026, they have made yet another crucial signing. Matt Caller, Max Verstappen’s long-time chief mechanic at Red Bull Racing, will join Audi’s operations at the end of 2025.
Audi has made a significant signing by bringing on board Max Verstappen’s chief mechanic, Matt Caller, ahead of their Formula 1 debut in 2026. Caller’s appointment is part of Audi’s aggressive hiring spree, which also saw the addition of experienced figures like former Ferrari engineers Zimmermann and Schmidt. Caller’s meticulous approach and expertise in garage operations are expected to be valuable assets for Audi as they aim to hit the ground running in 2026.
The move highlights the growing challenge for Red Bull, as they face the departure of key personnel like Jonnathan Wheatley and Lee Stevenson to Audi. Red Bull’s ability to retain their technical and operational staff amidst Audi’s rising influence remains a concern as the competition intensifies. Caller’s transition from Red Bull to Audi signifies the shifting dynamics within the sport as teams prepare for the upcoming seasons.
Audi’s strategic recruitment of top talent, including Caller, reflects their ambition to be competitive from the outset in Formula 1. The team’s focus on assembling a strong team behind the scenes indicates their readiness to challenge for podium finishes in their inaugural season. As Audi strengthens its operations, Red Bull must address the risk of further personnel departures impacting their own competitiveness in the upcoming years.
