Maurizio Arrivabene, former Team Principal of Ferrari, has commented on the recent departures of key engine specialists from Maranello and what implications this could have for the Scuderia heading into the 2026 Formula 1 season. According to Maurizio Arrivabene, Ferrari must carefully navigate the loss of these engineers to rival teams to avoid compromising their competitiveness under the new regulations.
Speaking on Race Anatomy, Maurizio Arrivabene highlighted that Ferrari has recently let go of two important powertrain engineers. The Italian also subtly criticized Frédéric Vasseur, referencing the detailed dossiers Lewis Hamilton submitted during the 2025 season. With the 2026 regulation overhaul approaching, Ferrari will need to ensure that the departure of these key engine specialists, including the figure considered the “father” of the new Power Unit, does not hinder their progress.
Arrivabene: “Despite gardening, they take their knowledge with them”
Maurizio Arrivabene explained that the internal mechanisms and organization within Ferrari are crucial for managing such losses. He said that although engineers Zimmermann and Schmidt left Ferrari mid-season, fans should be somewhat reassured. “If they leave at this stage of the season, it means that the engines were already finalized, so it’s not a catastrophe. However, we need to pay attention to what they take with them. They managed to pull the rabbit out of the hat, and despite the gardening clause, they carry their knowledge with them,” he stated.
Enrico Gualtieri, Ferrari’s Head of Engine Department, now leads the project. Several second-tier engineers have joined from Alpine, which will be running Mercedes engines from 2026 onwards. The balance of power between electric and internal combustion components is a challenge for all engine manufacturers. However, Ferrari must remain cautious about the possible transfer of critical technical information by Zimmermann and Schmidt to Audi.
Losing key personnel ahead of a major regulation change is never ideal, particularly on the power unit side. Maurizio Arrivabene emphasized that Ferrari must hope their innovative solutions succeed on track while remaining confidential from rivals. At this stage, it is impossible to predict who will emerge ahead, but Ferrari is fully aware that there is no room for mistakes if they want to stay competitive in 2026.
One thing is certain: with the 2026 grid shaping up to be the most open in years, Ferrari knows it cannot get the power unit wrong – and losing two of its brightest engine minds at this precise moment has set alarm bells ringing.
Leave a Reply