Further insights into Otmar Szafnauer’s F1 plans revealed

Once again, the press is buzzing with reports about Otmar Szafnauer’s F1 and other professional plans, but it seems not every detail is clear. What is the truth?

F1, IndyCar, sports car racing: news has intensified in recent days regarding what the former F1 team principal might be preparing for, especially after Szafnauer himself hinted at such plans in a recent interview.

Szafnauer’s intentions to return to F1 have long been known. The experienced specialist—who previously held senior leadership roles at BAR/Honda, Force India/Racing Point, Aston Martin, and Alpine—aims to launch a team, partner with an existing one, or potentially take one over on behalf of an American investment group. 

Since the American expert recently joined Van Amersfoort Racing (VAR) as CEO and managing partner, many are incorrectly linking the project with the Dutch racing team, which is considered a household name in the world of junior series. 

What is the truth?

According RacingNews365’ sources with a good knowledge of the situation, the driving force behind the project is not Van Amersfoort Racing, but rather a not-yet-identified group of American investors who are primarily interested in significant shares of an F1 team, launch their own team, or taking over a team completely. 

Beyond this, increasing their interests in motorsport is also equally important for this American investment group: the aforementioned IndyCar team launch, or potentially sports car racing—specifically the Hypercar category—could be pretty much interesting for them. 

Furthermore, the implementations of these projects could theoretically be much easier and quicker. According to our information, Szafnauer is active in these areas as well, seeking the best and most efficient solutions for the Americans. 

Although the name of the Dutch junior team, founded 51 years ago, is a strong brand, according to our sources - despite the speculations - the most likely scenario is that Van Amersfoort Racing’s name will remain in the junior categories and not appear in F1, IndyCar or Sports Car racing.