As Audi prepares to join the Formula 1 grid in 2026, the team has made yet another crucial signing with the addition of Max Verstappen’s leading mechanic.
Matt Caller, Verstappen’s long-time chief mechanic at Red Bull, will link up with Audi’s operation at the end of 2025.
This signing is crucial for Audi as it marks yet another high-profile individual joining its ranks as the German marque takes over Sauber.
Caller’s acquisition also brings light to Audi’s recent and aggressive hiring spree, where the team has brought on several experienced figures from across the sport.
Caller’s signing comes in light of he recent appointments of former Ferrari engineers, Wolf Zimmermann and Lars Schmidt.
Those two will be reunited with former Ferrari Team Principal Mattia Binotto, who is now Audi’s Chief Operating and Technical Officer.
From Carlin to Red Bull success
Caller joined Red Bull in 2015, following a stint with the successful junior team, Rodin Carlin.
Starting as a number-two mechanic, he steadily climbed the ranks, earning the title of chief mechanic in 2022, a period that coincided with Verstappen’s dominant championship campaigns.
Caller is well known throughout the paddock for his precise approach to the sport, playing a vital role in Red Bull’s success across the 2022–2025 seasons.
His expertise in garage operations, setup execution, and team coordination made him a key figure in Verstappen’s record-breaking performances.
Audi is hoping that Caller’s meticulous attitude will help the team immediately hit the ground running in 2026.
Although his exact role at Audi has yet to be confirmed, it is suggested that Caller will take on a more senior position than his current role.
Potentially, he will be in charge of the broader mechanical or operational responsibilities within the team.
Whilst the call’s move is an exciting opportunity for Audi, it underscores a rather large issue for Red Bull Racing.
Throughout the season, Red Bull has seen key personnel, such as Jonathan Wheatley and Lee Stevenson, depart the team for an opportunity with Audi.
This showcases a growing challenge that Red Bull is facing in retaining its top technical and operational staff amid Audi’s rising influence in the sport.
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