F1 News: Otmar Szafnauer Confirms Return Talks Have Already Taken Place

Otmar Szafanuer has revealed that he has already had discussions with teams over a potential return to Formula One after being abruptly let go from Alpine last week.

Alpine confirmed last Friday that team principal Szafnauer and sporting director Alan Permane were leaving the team after the Belgian Grand Prix amid a huge shake-up.

As soon as the news came out, rumours began to swirl of where Szafnauer could go next with Andretti Cadillac and Ford mentioned as possibilities. During an interview with Speedcafe.com, the former Alpine team chief confirmed that although he has to wait out a twelve month garden leave, there are still options for an F1 return before revealing that conversations have already begun to take place. He explained:

“Twelve months means no Formula 1 teamwork, but there are other things in Formula 1 I can do.

“So I could go and work for an engine manufacturer, for example, help them, or I could go work for F1 Experiences and help them, or Formula 1 or the FIA. So maybe I’ll be around in less than 12 months.”

When asked if he had already been approached with some offers less than a week after the news was confirmed, Szafnauer responded:

“I’ve had discussions.”

Szafnauer also confirmed that once the twelve month garden leave is up, he would be keen to return to a similar role of team principal as it is what he has known for the last fifteen years. He continued:

“If a situation arises where I could be of help to a team, on the pit wall as a team principal, I would definitely take that opportunity.

“That’s what I’ve been doing for the last 15 years. That’s what I know.”