Ferrari set to lose two key figures to new F1 team - report

Ferrari is set to lose two key figures from its power unit department, according to reports emerging from Italy in the days following the Italian Grand Prix.

Wolff Zimmermann and Lars Schmidt are reportedly set to depart the Scuderia, according to Autoracer and Corriere dello Sport, with indications suggesting a move to Audi. 

The exact timing of their move to the German marque, which is taking over the Stake team this winter, remains uncertain. 

Zimmermann, Ferrari’s Power Unit project leader, is widely acknowledged as an innovator in the realm of F1 engines, making his departure particularly notable.

Nevertheless, Ferrari’s engine department is not entirely reliant on him, as Enrico Gualtieri continues to oversee the 2026 power unit project.

Schmidt, the lead engineer for performance development in the internal combustion engine, is also expected to join Audi alongside Zimmermann, rekindling their professional relationship with Mattia Binotto.

Binotto, having exited Ferrari at the end of 2023, is now steering the Audi F1 project. His plans appear to involve significant changes within the engine programme.

Zimmermann’s move is seen as a critical juncture for Ferrari due to his strategic influence, yet the presence of Gualtieri provides some continuity.

Schmidt’s transition alongside him emphasises the strengthening ties with Audi, which are purportedly being moulded under Binotto’s leadership.