Audi Poaches Max Verstappen's Key Mechanic Ahead of 2026 F1 Entry

Audi is aggressively building its Formula 1 team for its 2026 debut, reportedly luring key personnel from rival teams. RacingNews365 confirms the most recent high-profile acquisition: Matt Caller, Max Verstappen's long-serving number one mechanic at Red Bull Racing.

Why it matters:

Audi's strategic recruitment of top F1 talent signals its serious intent to be competitive from the outset in 2026. Poaching experienced personnel, especially those from championship-winning teams like Red Bull, provides invaluable expertise and a competitive edge, crucial for a new entrant in the highly technical world of Formula 1.

The Details:

• Key Recruitment: Matt Caller, Max Verstappen's number one mechanic since 2022, will join Audi's Hinwil-based outfit for the 2026 season. Caller originally joined Red Bull in 2015.
• Strategic Poaching: This move follows Audi's earlier recruitment of two engine engineers from Ferrari, underscoring their commitment to an in-house power unit project.
• Leadership: Jonathan Wheatley, formerly Red Bull's sporting director, now leads Audi's F1 efforts and identified Caller as a crucial addition for his extensive experience.
• Precedent: This isn't the first time the team, currently operating as Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber, has attracted a senior Red Bull mechanic. Lee Stevenson, another Red Bull veteran, joined as chief mechanic earlier in 2024. Caller is expected to replace Stevenson, who is reportedly being promoted to a more senior role within the team.

What's next:

Audi's aggressive talent acquisition strategy indicates a methodical approach to establishing a strong foundation for its F1 program. As 2026 approaches, expect more high-profile recruitments as the team continues to assemble its engineering and operational staff. The integration of experienced personnel like Caller will be vital in translating technical ambitions into on-track performance, setting the stage for Audi's challenging but promising entry into Formula 1.