F1 News: Insider Predicts Big Move For Otmar Szafnauer After Alpine Dismissal

Considering his 12-year history with Ford- he could be back in action with the Blue Oval and Red Bull

The end of the Belgian Grand Prix saw the exit of two prominent team members at Alpine- Team Principal Otmar Szafnauer and Sporting Director Alan Permane, courtesy of the restructuring efforts from the Enstone-based outfit. 

As he left the paddock, Szafnauer paid a visit to his former team Aston Martin which made it seem like something was cooking again. However, renowned F1 journalist Joe Saward rules that out. He says that Szafnauer could be expected to work for an American F1 outfit in the near future which would most likely be Ford.

Ford is set to make a comeback into Formula 1 in 2026 through its partnership with Red Bull. Not only that, Szafnauer has spent a significant amount of time in America and has a history of working with Ford for 12 years before his entry into the world of racing. As the power unit regulations kick in in 2026, Ford and Red Bull's association will produce power units for Red Bull Racing and AlphaTauri.

However, there is also a possibility of Szafneuar joining another American outfit- Andretti Cadillac. Born as a result of a partnership between Andretti and General Motors, the outfit awaits confirmation from the FIA and is currently gearing up for its Formula 1 entry. Commenting on the update, Joe Saward said:

“He was employed for 12 years by the Ford Motor Company, running its US motorsport programs.

"Rival GM might also benefit from someone who knows F1 inside out as the current F1 project is under the leadership of Dr Eric Warren, who has a background in NASCAR where he was employed by Richard Childress Racing Richard Petty Motorsport, Ray Evernham, Michael Waltrip and Penske with only one limited spell in open-wheeler racing in 2009 when he spent some time as head of aerodynamics at US F1, the team that made a lot of noise but never happened.”

Otmar Szafnauer is a renowned name in Formula 1 who holds a lot of experience up his sleeves. Not only Ford and Andretti but, several other teams could approach him in the near future.

As for Alpine, there is no official update from the team on Szafnauer's replacement but it is rumoured that ex-Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto could fill the position in 2024.