22. Otmar Szafnauer

Otmar Szafnauer is one of the most recognisable faces in the world of Formula 1. As the CEO and Team Principal of BWT Racing Point F1 Team, he has been the driving force behind the success of the Silverstone-based team over the past 10 years. He currently holds the position of CEO and Team Principal of the Aston Martin F1 Team.

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Otmar’s unique management style and vision have helped create a team of true racers who share the same competitive spirit and hunger for success at the highest level of motorsport.

Holding a wealth of Formula 1 and motorsport experience, Otmar joined Ford in 1986 and became programmes manager of Ford Racing in 1993.

Following a stint in motorsport himself, driving in USAC FF2000 and USF2000, Otmar took up the position as the first Operations Director for the British American Racing Team in F1, next moving to Jaguar as COO and ultimately to Honda in 2002.

Holding positions on the management board including that of Vice President of Honda Racing Development, Otmar Szafnauer left the Japanese marque in 2009 and has been based at Silverstone since 2010.

At the helm of Force India, leading the team from the back of the grid to historic fourth places in the Formula 1 World Championships of 2016 and 2017, Otmar remained in charge at the start of the Racing Point era last season.

His skills and experience continue to prove a valuable asset as the team targets greater levels of consistency in Formula 1’s landmark 70th season, closing the gap to the top three.

In 2013, he amassed the USF2000 Hall of Fame Award for his contribution and accomplishments in the realm of motorsports over 20 years.

Otmar Szafnauer participates in philanthropy actively. He has a page, JustGiving, through which he collects donations and also sponsorships. It is to help the organizations and individuals in need. It raises funds mainly for NSPCC, which strives to stop child abuse in the UK.