Mattia Binotto has cooled rumours linking Ferrari to Andy Cowell, who recently stepped back from his integral role at the head of Mercedes’ power unit design.
Ferrari’s power unit performance has taken a step backwards in 2020 following a settlement it reached with the FIA regarding its 2019 engine, which was regarded as the fastest in the field.
Its on-track results have taken a hit as it is struggling in multiple areas this year, failing to score any points last time out at the Belgian Grand Prix, despite both Sebastian Vettel and Charles Leclerc finishing the race.
Earlier this year, Ferrari announced it had restructured its technical team, announcing a new Performance Development Department, headed by Enrico Cardile.
Binotto says that the benefits of its recent changes will take time to shine through.
“We restructured the technical department, now it’s only a very little time since it’s happened,” Binotto said.
“I think normally to see the results of an organisation, it takes some more time.
“I’m pretty happy in the way that I can feel the people feel responsible, understand the matter of urgency of our situation, are working hard, committed and united in the way to progress the car and somewhat progress our competitiveness.”
But Binotto denies that it is chasing after Cowell, who is assisting Mercedes for the rest of the year as it transitions into new leaders in the power unit department.
“In terms of new people joining Ferrari in the future, I think that in F1 you can never be satisfied,” Binotto stated.
“If there is anyone that can bring added value to the team, it’s our responsibility to look for it and eventually to do it.
“As far as I’m aware, he’s [Cowell] working with Mercedes still. There are certainly great names in F1. Is there someone joining very soon [at] Ferrari? That’s not the case.”
