Former Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto has acknowledged the immense challenge ahead as he embarks on a new journey with Audi, describing the task of winning a Formula 1 world championship with the up-and-coming constructor as akin to climbing Mount Everest. Binotto, who recently took on the role of COO/CTO at Sauber, which will soon become Audi’s F1 team, has been clear that success will not come quickly and will require years of effort and development.
Binotto, who led Ferrari from 2019 to 2022 but was ultimately ousted due to underwhelming results, is now tasked with steering Audi’s entry into the pinnacle of motorsport. Reflecting on the difficulty of competing for championships with a team that is still in its formative stages, Binotto emphasized the long-term nature of the project.
“It’s not only climbing a big mountain, it’s climbing Everest. It will take several years,” Binotto remarked, highlighting the scale of the challenge Audi faces in building a competitive team from the ground up.
Currently, Sauber’s performance in Formula 1 is far from the level Audi aims to reach. However, with ambitious goals set, Binotto confirmed that the German carmaker plans to fight for championships by the end of the decade. The team has already secured Valtteri Bottas as its primary driver, with a focus on long-term development to reach the top of the sport.
“Our objective is by the end of the decade to be able to fight for the championships,” Binotto said, acknowledging the realistic timeframe Audi has set for itself.
Binotto also addressed concerns about the risks associated with such a massive undertaking, particularly as Formula 1 recently rejected Andretti’s bid to join the grid as an 11th team. He reassured fans and stakeholders that Audi’s project is well-aligned with the brand’s vision and goals, with no doubts about the team’s long-term commitment to the sport.
“We can clearly state there are no risks, and the F1 programs really fit with the Audi brand and vision. We are in F1 until we win and after. It is a long-term commitment. We have joined F1 to be here and stay here,” Binotto added, underscoring Audi’s dedication to Formula 1 success.
Binotto’s new role at Audi presents a fresh opportunity for the 54-year-old to prove his leadership and technical expertise. With the 2026 regulations looming, Audi’s ability to interpret and capitalize on the new rules will be crucial in making a strong start and securing their place as a future championship contender. For Binotto, this is the ultimate test, as he leads Audi on their climb to the summit of motorsport’s most prestigious competition.
