Mekies replaces Binotto as Ferrari's representative at FIA gala

Binotto is still employed by Ferrari until 2023, but will no longer be the team's delegate at upcoming FIA events. Sporting director Laurent Mekies will take over. Would the Frenchman also take over Binotto's other duties?

Ferrari will be rudderless from 2023 onwards. At least, so it seems for now. The Italian race team has not yet chosen a successor to Binotto, who will step down from Ferrari as of 2023. Several rumours were already circulating about the Italian's possible replacement. For instance, Red Bull Racing team boss Christian Horner was said to be a dream candidate, but Frederic Vasseur and Andreas Seidl were also on the list. Judging by reports from the Spanish branch of Motorsport.com there would also be another big contender within the Ferrari ranks.

Will Mekies remain the Ferrari representative?

If the team chooses to move someone up from within its own ranks to replace Binotto, it might become the sporting director. Mekies would be the biggest contender and it seems the Frenchman is already gearing up for his new position. Indeed, Mekies previously took charge in 2022 during weekends when Binotto could not attend, but the Frenchman will also represent Ferrari in place of Binotto at the upcoming FIA prizegiving gala on Friday 9 December. Binotto is still employed as usual, but thus still has to cede his spot to Mekies. The FIA World Council will also take place this week and it is expected that Mekies will also be present at that event in place of the current team boss.