Audi F1 have announced that Mattia Binotto will replace Andreas Seidl as the new leader of the F1 project with chairman Oliver Hoffmann also stepping aside.
In 2026, the German brand plans to make its debut in Formula 1. Initially, it was believed that former McLaren personnel Seidl would play a crucial role in leading them. However, Audi has recently revealed a significant alteration to their strategy.
Audi F1 appoint Mattia Binotto with Andreas Seidl given the sack
Following rumors that Audi might withdraw from their F1 entry, the team has assured that preparations are progressing swiftly. As they complete their acquisition of Sauber, Audi has named Binotto as the new chief operating and chief technical officer, replacing Seidl and Hoffmann, who have been let go.
After working as team principal at Ferrari, Binotto took a gardening leave last year. Now, there are speculations about his potential return to the Formula 1 paddock.
The CEO of Audi AG, Gernot Döllner, expressed his excitement over the recruitment of Mattia Binotto for their Formula 1 project. Binotto’s impressive 25 years of experience in the field undoubtedly qualifies him to make a significant impact at Audi.
The team stated that Binotto’s decision was a component of a broader objective to restructure the management team overseeing their Formula 1 endeavors. Consequently, Seidl and Hoffmann, who were rumored to have experienced conflicts behind closed doors, have both been dismissed from their positions.
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Having worked as their team principal from 2019 to 2022, Seidl left McLaren to join Audi in 2023. He was already acquainted with the Sauber operation, having previously worked with BMW from 2000 to 2009.
Döllner expressed his gratitude, stating, “I extend my thanks to Oliver and Andreas for their significant efforts in launching our presence in Formula 1 and their dedication in preparing for it.”
After completing his mechanical engineering studies at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne, Binotto commenced his tenure at Ferrari in 1995.
Following that, he went on to occupy a range of roles, including chief engineer, manager of the engine department, and technical director.
Binotto was appointed as the team head of Ferrari in 2019. Now, as the COO and CTO, he will report directly to the board of directors of Sauber Motorsport AG.
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