Formula 1 gained another chapter of speculation involving Jonathan Wheatley and Aston Martin during the 2026 Canadian GP. A sign placed in the parking lot reserved for team principals in Montreal indicated the name of the executive next to the British team.
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The image was shared by photographer Kym Illman on social media and quickly caused a stir in the paddock. The sign only showed the inscription “Jonathan Wheatley Aston Martin,” raising doubts about a possible early confirmation of the hiring.
See this photo on InstagramA post shared by Kym Illman F1 (@kymillman)
“This sign appeared today in the team principals’ parking lot here in Montreal. So, has Jonathan Wheatley just been confirmed as Aston Martin’s principal or was this just a mistake?” Illman wrote in his post.
Wheatley left Audi abruptly early in the season, after less than a year in the role of team principal. Since then, the former Red Bull sporting director has been constantly linked to Aston Martin, a move considered likely within the Formula 1 paddock.
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According to rumors, Adrian Newey would be in favor of Wheatley joining the British team. Currently, Newey holds the position of team principal at Aston Martin, but hiring the executive would allow the legendary designer to fully focus on developing the car for 2027 and the upcoming regulations.
Despite the buzz, no official confirmation has been made. Shortly after, the organizers of the Canadian GP released a statement saying it was all a printing error.
“We are aware of the printing error that occurred yesterday. The issue was quickly corrected and we sincerely apologize for any confusion caused,” Bell GP Canada stated.
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