F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Ferrari decided against hiring Mercedes’ Lowe

Ferrari president Sergio Marchionne has revealed that the Scuderia “had a proposal” to hire Mercedes executive and technical director Paddy Lowe but eventually opted against it in the name of stability.

Ferrari failed to win a grand prix for the second time in three years in 2016. The Maranello-based outfit also saw technical director James Allison leave during the summer and promoted engine boss Mattia Binotto in the subsequent overhaul.

Speaking to the Italian media at Ferrari’s Christmas lunch, Marchionne told reporters that the Scuderia’s in-season restructuring meant the input from Lowe, who has overseen Mercedes’ triple championship doubles in the latest turbo era, was not needed.

“We had a proposal, but the role was already covered,” the Ferrari boss was quoted as saying by La Reppublica.

“We are not looking for a Ross Brawn-like saviour who can solve all the problems. Together, we can pull through by working the right way. I don’t want to be constantly changing the team.”

Marchionne had high goals for the Scuderia entering the 2016 season, saying failure to win a title would be “a tragedy”. The 64-year-old admitted he was “incautious” and says he won’t make any grand promises for next year.

“Now I only want us to do better than in 2016, which doesn't seem hard to me,” Marchionne added.

“Should we continue not to win, then the blame lies at my feet. I’ve already told Ferrari fans who approach me on the street and complain about our win drought: 'that’s my mistake, wait for 2017'.

“I am confident about the new car, confident that we have taken action and done a good job in all areas, starting with the aerodynamics.”

Meanwhile, Lowe appears to be on his way to Williams, where the Briton started his F1 career in 1987.

2016 team-by-team review: Part two

2016 team-by-team review: Part one

Andrew Green: Force India's smooth operator

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Julien Billiotte

Recent Posts

Horner: Max 'answered critics' with epic Sao Paulo GP drive

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner hailed Max Verstappen’s sensational Sao Paulo Grand Prix victory…

10 mins ago

Sainz left puzzled by double crash drama in rainy São Paulo

Carlos Sainz was left scratching his head after a disastrous Sunday at the Sao Paulo…

1 hour ago

Alonso pushed through agonizing pain to complete Sao Paulo GP

Fernando Alonso braved both physical agony and mechanical challenges in the Sao Paulo Grand Prix,…

3 hours ago

Alpine double-podium in Brazil could deliver $30 million windfall

Alpine’s remarkable double podium at the São Paulo Grand Prix with Esteban Ocon and Pierre…

17 hours ago

F1i's Driver Ratings for the 2024 São Paulo GP

Alexander Albon, Williams (Did Not Start): 5.5/10 Alex Albon is definitely going through something of…

19 hours ago

Jos Verstappen rips British media after Brazilian Max fest

Jos Verstappen wasted no time after his son spectacular win at the São Paulo Grand…

20 hours ago