Ferrari is on the verge of emulating McLaren’s technical structure. Loic Serra is set to be unveiled as Ferrari’s new Technical Director as the team replicates the reorganization that McLaren has achieved success with in Formula 1.
Before the summer break, Ferrari announced the expected news that Enrico Cardile was leaving his position as Technical Director to pursue a move to Aston Martin. Vasseur has taken on the responsibilities that come with the role as he revealed that there would be changes to the technical division when the season resumes.
“The situation during the summer break is the simplest,” Vasseur said at the Hungarian Grand Prix. “After the summer break, we will announce the new organization.”
Former Mercedes Technical Director Mike Elliott, who left the German team in late 2023, was considered a potential candidate to replace Cardile in the team. However, according to Formu1a.uno, Elliott was not a name that was being considered by Vasseur. Instead, Ferrari’s solution to Cardile’s recent departure could come from within the team.
Ferrari previously announced that they have acquired the services of Loic Serra to become the team’s Head of Chassis Performance Engineering starting in October. The Frenchman, who previously served as Mercedes’ Head of Vehicle Performance, is expected to oversee Track Engineering, Aero Development, Aero Operations, and Vehicle Performance. However, there are reports suggesting that Serra could also take on the role of Technical Director as Ferrari adjusts its technical hierarchy to adopt a three-pronged structure.
Serra is set to join forces with Head of Aerodynamics Diego Tondi and Chief Project Engineer Fabio Montecchi in Ferrari’s new structure. This restructuring is similar to McLaren’s successful approach last season, which led to a remarkable comeback. Ferrari’s attempts to recruit Pierre Wache, their long-desired candidate, have once again been unsuccessful. Vasseur, like his predecessor Binotto, was unable to convince Wache to leave his position as Red Bull’s Technical Director. Despite Serra’s close relationship with Wache from their time at BMW Sauber, the design genius has chosen to remain with Red Bull. Serra’s presence will coincide with Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari in 2025, as it is believed that he played a role in Hamilton’s decision. In the meantime, Ferrari’s technical department is focused on resolving the recurring bouncing issue that has hindered their performance this season. Although a temporary solution was found at the Hungarian GP, a more permanent fix is still needed. Ferrari is reportedly planning to introduce an upgraded floor at the Italian Grand Prix next month to improve drivability and stabilize the car’s platform.
