Charles Leclerc believes former Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto can use the experience gained during his time at the helm of the team in his new role leading the Sauber/Audi Formula 1 venture.
Audi has appointed Binotto as operational and technical director of Sauber Motorsport to oversee the brand’s entry into F1 in 2026.
Sauber explained that the decision to fire CEO Andreas Seidl and chief representative Oliver Hoffmann to hire Binotto was made to “accelerate” the integration of Audi into F1.
Leclerc, who made his F1 debut with Sauber in 2018, believes Binotto has accumulated experience at Ferrari which will benefit him in his new role.
“I think a lot of Mattia’s life has also been spent in Switzerland, so I assume he knows the culture very well and it will suit him well.”
“And he can also use his past experience with a team like Ferrari, that’s for sure.”
“So yes, he can definitely bring a lot to a team like Sauber drawing on his past experiences.”
Former boss of Sauber, and today director of a team which is its own engine manufacturer, what can Frédéric Vasseur say about the situation at Sauber/Audi? Is he worried? What can he say about his predecessor’s arrival at Ferrari in Hinwil?
“I am focused on my team, on my guys, and I know perfectly well that it is difficult to lead a Formula 1 team, but not only in Switzerland. I think it is difficult everywhere. Mattia did very well work at Ferrari in the past, he was successful, the team was successful, and I wish them the best. But it’s not for me to comment on the potential of Mattia and Audi.
For his part, Laurent Mekies also has full confidence in Mattia Binotto, whom he also worked with at Ferrari.
“In terms of skills, there is no doubt that Mattia has everything it takes to succeed there and probably elsewhere. So I think they will become even stronger competitors in the near future.”
