Pirelli has announced a major management change, confirming Mario Isola’s departure and revealing the new figure who will lead its Motorsport division, including Formula 1.
Major changes are underway at Pirelli, as the Italian tyre manufacturer has officially confirmed that Mario Isola will step down from his role as Head of Motorsport. A new name will now take charge of the company’s Formula 1 programme and its broader racing activities.
Isola joined the Milan-based company in 1996 as a tyre test driver. Over the years, he climbed the ranks and became Head of F1 and Car Racing in 2016, before assuming the role of Head of Motorsport in 2021. After three decades of service to the official tyre supplier of Formula 1, he will leave the company on 1 July 2026.
Formula 1 will lose one of the most recognisable and respected faces in the paddock. After ten years as a leading figure in the modern F1 era, Mario Isola will step down from his position at Pirelli. A highly regarded manager known for both his technical expertise and approachable personality, he has been a regular presence in race broadcasts and technical analysis segments on Italian and international television alike. He will remain in his role until 1 July 2026, working alongside his successor to ensure a smooth and effective transition.
Pirelli confirms Dario Marrafuschi as new Motorsport director
In an official press release, Pirelli announced the appointment of its new Motorsport Director: “Dario Marrafuschi will be the new Head of Motorsport, replacing Mario Isola. He will report to Giovanni Tronchetti Provera, Executive Vice President Sustainability, New Mobility & Motorsport.”
Who is Dario Marrafuschi, Pirelli’s new Head of Motorsport?
While Mario Isola “will leave the company to pursue new professional challenges,” his position will be taken over by Dario Marrafuschi. Having joined Pirelli in 2008, Marrafuschi has built extensive experience in Formula 1 within the Research and Development department. In recent years, he has led the development of Pirelli’s road car products, further strengthening his technical background.
Like his predecessor, Marrafuschi will report directly to Giovanni Tronchetti Provera, Executive Vice President Sustainability, New Mobility & Motorsport, maintaining continuity within the company’s leadership structure.
“The company,” the official press release continues, “thanks Mario Isola for the dedication and great passion with which he has contributed over the years to the development of the Motorsport business unit.”
The transition marks the end of a significant chapter for Pirelli in Formula 1, as the tyre supplier prepares for a new era both on and off the track ahead of the next regulatory cycle.
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