High-Level Change at Ferrari: Laurent Mekies Steps Down Earlier than Expected

• F1

In a recent turn of events, Ferrari announced that Sporting Director, Laurent Mekies, will be leaving the team before the season's conclusion. Scheduled initially to stay until the end of the season, Mekies will now be absent from the paddock as early as the Belgium Grand Prix.

Mekies Departs After Four and a Half Seasons

Mekies joined Scuderia Ferrari in 2019, a tenure marked by significant contributions to the team. Ferrari's official statement shed light on this development. "Laurent Mekies' time at Scuderia Ferrari comes to an end this week.

The Racing Director will not be in Belgium, and he leaves the Prancing Horse after four and a half seasons, during which time the team took seven wins. The entire team thanks him for his great contribution during those years." The Frenchman, who was expected to be Franz Tost’s successor at AlphaTauri next year, has left the Italian outfit earlier than initially planned.

He has been an integral part of Ferrari's motorsport journey, influencing the team's trajectory with his leadership and strategic prowess.

Diego Ioverno Steps Up

Ferrari has been quick to confirm a successor, naming Diego Ioverno as their new Sporting Director.

Ioverno, a veteran member of the Scuderia, will assume Mekies' responsibilities on the pit wall from the Belgian Grand Prix. His broad remit will cover all sporting matters and include liaising with the FIA. Ioverno has been a dedicated figure in the Maranello operations for the past 23 years.

Working closely with Matteo Togninalli, Head of Track Engineering, and Ravin Jain, Race Strategist, he will report directly to Team Principal, Fred Vasseur. Ferrari is currently in fourth place in the constructors’ championship, just past the halfway point in the season.

Despite this reshuffle, the team remains committed to continuing their strong performance. Their two podiums this season, both courtesy of Charles Leclerc, demonstrate the potential of this famed motorsport outfit.