Mattia Binotto reflects on his time at Ferrari and his collaboration with seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher. The Italian refers to the German as ‘the best driver’ he has ever worked with, and hopes to apply what he has learned from the world champion’s winning mentality at Sauber.
After 28 years of loyal service at Ferrari, Mattia Binotto switched to Sauber in 2022. The Italian hopes to lead the Swiss team to the top in his dual role as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technical Officer, once Audi takes over in 2026. However, Binotto is not just looking forward, but also building on what he learned from his collaboration with seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher.
The current chief engineer worked as an engineer in Ferrari’s engine department during Schumacher’s time. “Michael was amazing,” Binotto tells BILD. “He is the best driver I have ever worked with. An exceptional driver, but he was at his best outside the car. He was a true leader, because of his mentality.”
DNA
Schumacher drove for Ferrari between 1996 and 2006, and won the world title five times in a row during his tenure. The German driver stood on the top step of the podium on behalf of Scuderia no less than 72 times. “His way of working with the team in the garage, the way he set ambitious goals and never gave up until he had achieved them, that was unique,” Binotto praises Schumacher. “It was in his DNA. And this is exactly the mentality we need at Sauber to become successful.”
