Audi F1 Boss Discusses Sauber’s Transformation and Future Goals

As the historic Swiss racing team, Sauber, celebrates its 600th grand prix at Imola earlier this month, change is afoot. Mattia Binotto, Audi F1 lead, discusses the transition of Sauber to become the Audi works outfit from 2026 and the challenges ahead.

The Role of CEO at Audi F1 Team

Mattia Binotto shares his thoughts on becoming the CEO of the Audi F1 Team, stating that it means more responsibility but also demonstrates trust from Audi. He welcomes this act of trust with great pleasure.

Binotto acknowledges that the transition from Sauber to Audi is a long and complex process, but the team is already looking towards the future. He emphasizes that everyone within the team understands there will be no moment of pause, and Imola’s 600 GP celebration was symbolic in projecting into the future.

Managing Changes at Sauber in 2021

Binotto discusses his plans for managing changes at Sauber this year, stating that it is more about a long transition rather than something hard. He believes that the team needs to focus on expanding, hiring more people, increasing internal manufacturing capacity, building new buildings, and creating a new simulator.

The Future of Audi in Formula 1

Binotto expresses his commitment to Audi’s five-year timeline for success in F1, emphasizing that the brand is known for winning wherever it goes and innovating quickly. He believes that this guiding principle will drive their efforts in F1.

The State of Play at Sauber Factory

Binotto discusses the priorities at the Sauber factory, stating that they are working on many fronts simultaneously. He mentions the need to expand, hire more staff, increase internal manufacturing capacity, build a new simulator, and improve testing methodologies.

The Impact of Switzerland on Attracting Talent

Binotto addresses concerns about attracting talent to Sauber due to its location in Switzerland. He expresses his confidence that the high quality of life and security in Switzerland could become a competitive advantage for the team.

Expansion Plans for Audi F1 Team

Binotto discusses Audi’s plans for expanding, including the opening of a new technology center in the UK within the next few weeks. He also mentions that they will start with around 20 people at the center and aims to attract more talent to Hinwil over time.

Expectations for Formula 1 in 2025 and Beyond

Binotto shares his expectations for Formula 1 in 2025, stating that he expects a championship that will be fun until the end with multiple teams winning races. He does not expect McLaren to dominate but believes that other teams can also win due to their technical advantage.

Sauber’s Expectations for 2021

Binotto expresses his hope for a year of growth for Sauber in 2021, stating that they aim to fight for points at every race and find consistency in results. He believes that this would be a major leap for the team.

Audi’s Innovative Solutions for F1 within Current Rules

Binotto discusses potential innovative solutions that Audi can bring to F1 within the current rules, stating that they are focusing on setting up the team with an organization that may be different from others. He mentions that they have already started implementing this innovative approach between him and Jonathan Wheatley, their new team principal.

The Future of Engines in Formula 1

Binotto discusses the future of engines in F1, stating that they will introduce sustainable fuels next year. He believes that fuel will become a differentiating factor in the championship and hopes for a technological challenge on petrols used.

The Complexity of Developing New Engines

Binotto discusses the complexity of developing new engines, stating that it is much more complex than one might imagine as a spectator. He emphasizes the importance of human factors and experience in processes, basic knowledge, and fine-tuning.

The Challenges Ahead for Audi F1 Team

Binotto discusses the challenges ahead for Audi F1 Team, stating that both reliability and performance are difficult issues. He expresses his hope and conviction in the project despite the difficulties that the automotive industry is experiencing.