Ferrari F1 | Wolf Zimmermann and Lars Schmidt reportedly preparing to leave Maranello. Ferrari could see significant departures from its F1 department as the team prepares for the 2026 season.

F1 | Ferrari – Key figures poised to leave Maranello

In recent days, Ferrari has once again been at the center of media attention as reports suggest that several key figures within the F1 department are preparing to leave Maranello. Here’s a closer look at who could be departing.

Even though the 2025 Formula 1 season is still underway, teams are already looking ahead to 2026. Next year, a new technical regulation will come into effect, and no team wants to be caught off guard. According to rumors, a major shake-up could be happening within Ferrari’s F1 division. Two high-profile figures, deeply involved in the 2026 project, may soon be leaving Maranello.

Major departures at Ferrari

According to AutoRacer.it, Wolf Zimmermann could soon bid farewell to Maranello. Zimmermann is currently head of the engine development area. Having joined Ferrari 11 years ago, he worked closely with Mattia Binotto for many years and now appears ready for a new challenge, reportedly joining the Italian engineer at Audi to work on their upcoming project. His deputy, Lars Schmidt, also seems likely to follow him. Losing two such crucial figures just months before the start of the new season could be a serious blow for the Scuderia.

If Zimmermann and Schmidt are indeed preparing to leave for Audi, full control over the development of Ferrari’s new Power Unit would remain in the hands of engineer Enrico Gualtieri to ensure stability and continuity.

Potential third departure

But the changes may not stop at two engineers. According to journalist Leo Turrini on his blog Profondo Rosso, another key member of Ferrari’s F1 staff could also be leaving the Maranello Racing Department. The engineer in question is Diego Tondi, Ferrari’s head of aerodynamics. On Turrini’s blog, it is noted: “The turnover of engineers of any caliber, whether internal or external to the company, is standard in F1. For instance, there are murmurs that engineer Tondi, an aerodynamics specialist, already has his suitcase ready.”

These potential departures come at a critical time as Ferrari aims to enter 2026 fully prepared for the new regulations, making the future composition of the Maranello technical team a topic of intense interest among fans and experts alike.