26. Mattia Binotto

Born in Lausanne, Switzerland in 1969, Mattia Binotto is a prominent figure in the world of Formula 1, blending Swiss precision with Italian racing passion. Holding Italian citizenship, Binotto laid the foundations of his career at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, where he studied mechanical engineering. He later pursued a master’s degree in automotive engineering at the University of Modena, right in the heart of Italy’s Motor Valley.

Binotto’s F1 journey began in 1995 when he joined Ferrari as an engine engineer on the Scuderia Ferrari test team. His talent and technical expertise quickly propelled him through the ranks. By 2007, he was Ferrari’s Chief Engineer, and in 2014, he became Head of Engines, contributing to the design and development of Ferrari’s power units during a pivotal era of hybrid technology in Formula 1.

In 2016, he was appointed Technical Director, overseeing the team’s performance on and off the track. His leadership culminated in his promotion to Team Principal in 2019. During his tenure (2019–2022), Ferrari twice finished as runner-up in the Constructors’ Championship (2019 and 2022), and Charles Leclerc claimed second in the Drivers’ Championship in 2022—signalling Ferrari’s return to competitiveness under Binotto’s direction.

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Now, Binotto is embarking on a new challenge as the Head of the Audi F1 Project. With Audi set to join the Formula 1 grid in 2026, he leads development efforts across key locations in Hinwil, Switzerland, and Neuburg an der Donau, Germany, as well as a new technical centre planned in England. His appointment signals Audi’s serious intent to become a top-tier contender in F1, leveraging his experience and deep technical knowledge.

As Formula 1 gears up for a new era of innovation and sustainability, Mattia Binotto remains at the heart of the action—this time steering Audi’s ambitious entry into the world’s most elite motorsport.