Why Ferrari barely even acknowledge Mattia Binotto in the Formula 1 paddock

Mattia Binotto remains one of the more divisive figures in the modern Formula 1 paddock. Years after his departure from Ferrari, the tension surrounding his tenure is still palpable — a legacy that continues to shape perceptions of the 56-year-old as he prepares to step into a leading role at Audi.

From Ferrari engineer to Team Principal

However, his spell at the helm proved turbulent. Ferrari were unable to mount a sustained title challenge under his leadership. After losing out to Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes in 2019, the Scuderia endured a dramatic downturn in 2020, finishing sixth in the constructors’ standings — their lowest championship position since 1973 — and failing to secure a single victory.

His position ultimately became untenable, and he resigned at the end of 2022. Fred Vasseur stepped in as his successor, yet even four years later, the strained relationship between Binotto and Ferrari appears far from healed.

A cold reception in the Paddock

Now part of Audi’s Formula 1 project, Binotto still seems to hold affection for his former team. He was reportedly hurt watching Ferrari finish fourth in the 2025 standings without a win.

That sentiment, however, does not appear to be mutual.

Journalist Keman Sengul, speaking via Motorsport Turkiye, offered a blunt assessment of Binotto’s standing within the paddock.

“Well, Mattia Binotto is a bit of an odd one,” Sengul said. “I’ve actually had the chance to see him in the paddock. I don’t think he’s the sort of person who gets on very well with those around him.”

He went further, describing an almost visible distance between Binotto and his former colleagues.

“Ferrari, when I walk past the Ferrari garage, no one looks at Binotto, nor have I ever seen him enter the Ferrari garage. He doesn’t have many friends.”

Sengul added that Binotto is not “exactly a popular figure in the paddock either,” suggesting that elements of his character and demeanour may lie at the root of the issue.

At Audi, however, the picture appears different. The German manufacturer reportedly values his technical expertise highly and believes he is steering the project in the right direction. Even so, Sengul noted that “getting along with him doesn’t seem all that easy,” referencing recent tensions involving Jonathan Wheatley.

Audi’s gamble after Wheatley’s exit

Ahead of the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix, Binotto is set to assume the role of team principal at Audi following Jonathan Wheatley’s departure to Aston Martin.

Reports surrounding Wheatley’s sudden exit have reinforced the perception that Binotto is not the easiest figure to work alongside. The two are said to have clashed on multiple occasions, and it was even suggested that Wheatley’s original signing had not been fully coordinated with Binotto.

With Wheatley gone, the responsibility now rests squarely on Binotto’s shoulders.

He brings prior experience as a team principal and deep technical knowledge — assets that could prove invaluable for a newcomer like Audi. Yet questions remain about whether his leadership style, which left lasting scars at Ferrari, can foster the unity and stability required for long-term success.

Binotto’s next chapter will define not only Audi’s early trajectory in Formula 1, but also his own legacy in the sport.