After only seven months in the job Ferrari has moved Marco Mattiacci on from the position Scuderia Ferrari Team Principal. He will be replaced by Maurizio Arrivabene (above), who has made his name flogging smokes with Philip Morris.
It’s okay, Arrivabene does have Formula 1 exposure through his F1 Commission role representing all sponsors. But, running an F1 team? This is a bold move by the Scuderia and has been driven by Ferrari Chairman Sergio Marchionne. The intent seems to be to improve Ferrari’s political strength in the sport, rather than its flagging fortunes in the garage.
“We decided to appoint Maurizio Arrivabene because, at this historic moment in time for the Scuderia and for Formula 1, we need a person with a thorough understanding not just of Ferrari but also of the governance mechanisms and requirements of the sport,” Marchionne explained.
“Maurizio has a unique wealth of knowledge: he has been extremely close to the Scuderia for years and, as a member of the F1 Commission, is also keenly aware of the challenges we are facing.
“He has been a constant source of innovative ideas focused on revitalisation of Formula 1
“His managerial experience on a highly complex and closely regulated market is also of great importance, and will help him manage and motivate the team. I am delighted to have been able to secure his leadership for our racing activities.”
Autosport has an article further analysing why Mattiacci got shafted.