Ex-Ferrari Team Principal Mattia Binotto on Audi’s radar to lead its F1 power units division

Audi is rumored to be interested in Mattia Binotto to lead its F1 power units program.

Ex-Ferrari Team Principal Mattia Binotto on Audi’s radar to lead its F1 power units division

Audi F1 showcar [L]. Mattia Binotto [R] (images via IMAGO)

Audi is going to join the pinnacle of motorsport in 2026. The iconic carmaker will join forces with Sauber (currently Alfa Romeo) after acquiring a majority stake in the Swiss team. The German auto giant has been working extensively on its F1 power units program. Now, reports have emerged regarding its target to lead the division.

As per reports, it is believed that former Scuderia Ferrari Team Principal Mattia Binotto is on the top of Audi’s list. The Italian even served as the head of the Engine Department at Maranello in 2013 before becoming the Chief Technical Officer three years later. Binotto was the Team Principal of the Prancing Horse between 2019-2022.

Mattia Binotto is believed to be a good option for Audi considering his contributions to the Scuderia over the years. However, it is believed that the Former Ferrari boss already has more options on the table. This could make it difficult for the German automaker to sign the Italian to spearhead its power units division.

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Audi remains committed to F1 program

Despite making massive investments in its Formula 1 program with Sauber, rumors had surfaced that Audi might be looking to abandon its ambitions to conquer the pinnacle of motorsport. It was said that the new leadership on Audi’s board was hesitant to spend hundreds of millions on the F1 project. As the carmaker struggled with the development of an in-house F1 power unit.

Audi's F1 announcement livery (image via Evening Standard)
Audi’s F1 announcement livery (image via Evening Standard)

Thankfully. both Audi and Sauber have made it clear that the carmaker will make its entry in F1 as planned. The auto giant will complete its acquisition of the Sauber F1 team by the given timeframe as well. Certainly, this comes as a massive sigh of relief for fans and the sport. As Audi came narrowly close to ending its F1 project before even making it to the grid.

Audi is expected to work around the clock for its first-ever F1 power unit. The German auto giant has been trying to bring in some of the most talented personnel to its engine division. However, it remains to be seen if the carmaker can indeed develop a competitive power unit as it joins the Formula 1 grid in 2026.

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