Ferrari linked with Red Bull strategist Hannah Schmitz? Rumours emerge
Is Ferrari looking at Red Bull to strengthen its strategy department by targeting the brilliant mind of Hannah Schmitz? Rumours have started to circulate. The Prancing Horse is working to improve across all areas, and attention could now be turning to Red Bull’s highly regarded chief strategist. Here is the latest on the speculation surrounding a possible Ferrari interest.
In recent years, the Milton Keynes-based team has lost several key figures. First Adrian Newey, then Christian Horner and Helmut Marko, as well as GianPiero Lambiase, who is set to leave in 2028, along with other important members of the group that dominated from 2021 to 2024. Many of those victories were also shaped by the strategic brilliance of Hannah Schmitz, a key figure on the Red Bull pit wall. Fred Vasseur has repeatedly stated over recent seasons that he wants to see Ferrari improve in every department. Now, rumours are emerging about a possible move from Maranello.
Is Ferrari preparing an offer for Schmitz?
According to speculation reported by Kenny Handkammer, a former Red Bull mechanic, Hannah Schmitz could also be set to leave. The British team’s head of strategy, known for her decisive calls during races and key moments throughout race weekends, may be looking for a new contract. Hannah Schmitz joined Red Bull in 2009 and is widely regarded as a top-tier figure whom any team would sign without hesitation. According to the same source, Ferrari may even be preparing an offer. However, there is more to consider.
Based on statements from Giuliano Duchessa of AutoRacer.it — considered a more reliable source than those mentioned previously — the recruitment of the strategist is not part of Ferrari’s plans: “As far as I know, not only is there no pressure, but Ferrari has no plans to sign Hannah Schmitz. I believe it is a completely unrealistic rumour.”
Therefore, the move currently appears unlikely, although in Formula 1 situations can change very quickly. The hope in Maranello will be not to miss out on such high-profile names should they become available. One of them is Pierre Waché, Red Bull’s current technical director and a long-time acquaintance of Loïc Serra.
The speculation surrounding Hannah Schmitz highlights just how much the “brain drain” at Red Bull has become the primary talking point of the paddock. While some insiders dismiss the Ferrari link as implausible, the mere fact that her name is being discussed shows that Fred Vasseur has successfully shifted the narrative at Maranello to one of aggressive expansion and excellence.
