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F1 Rumour: Otmar Szafnauer To Take Role In Aston Martin

It has been rumoured that Otmar Szafnauer is to take a role in Aston Martin following his shocking Alpine exit.

Lydia Mee

F1 Rumour: Otmar Szafnauer To Take Role In Aston Martin
F1 Rumour: Otmar Szafnauer To Take Role In Aston Martin /

Alpine confirmed on Friday that team principal Otmar Szafnauer had been dismissed from the role and was set to leave after the Belgian Grand Prix. 

The French team's significant restructure signifies the conclusion of team chief Szafnauer and sporting director Alan Permane's tenure. 

Szafnauer, who joined Alpine in 2022, initiated his Formula One journey in 1998 with British American Racing. Moving to Honda in 2001, he was promoted to Vice President of Honda Racing developments. Post-Honda, Szafnauer created Soft Pauer, the company behind the official F1 Timing and Track Positioning app. His return to Formula One was with Force India in 2009. He helped elevate the team's standing from seventh in the constructors' championship in 2010 to the top five by 2015, and fourth in 2016 and 2017. Szafnauer remained with the team as it was bought out by Aston Martin until the end of 2021. 

During an interview with Sky Sports F1 during the Belgian Grand Prix weekend, the former Alpine team chief fuelled rumours of a return to Aston Martin. He explained:

"Yes, as you can see, my Alpine adventure has just ended. Now I can join a new F1 team from now on. Let's wait and see..." 

When it was clarified that he had been seen going into the Aston Martin team guest house, Szafnauer remained coy, responding:

"I will not comment."

Szafnauer was seen leaving the track before the race today. There have not been any official announcements of a next move for the former team principal just yet but we will be keeping our eyes out. 

The sport is now heading into the summer break which is when a lot of the 'silly season' contracts are revealed or discussed. 

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Lydia Mee
LYDIA MEE

Lydia is the lead editor of F1 editorial. After following the sport for several years, she was finally able to attend the British Grand Prix in person in 2017. Since then, she's been addicted to not only the racing, but the atmosphere the fans bring to each event. She's a strong advocate for women in motorsport and a more diverse industry. 

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