Ferrari is set to appoint Mattia Binotto as Team Principal of its Formula 1 team, with Maurizio Arrivabene departing the company, according to widespread reports.
Arrivabene replaced Marco Mattiacci in late 2014 but its title drought continued, extending to a decade when it failed to pick up either of the 2018 championships.
Ferrari re-emerged as a title contender in 2017 but driver errors, strategic mistakes and development problems in both of the last two seasons proved costly in its fight against Mercedes.
Reports surfaced through 2018 that Arrivabene and Binotto endured a fractious working relationship, with then Chairman Sergio Marchionne planning to axe Arrivabene.
Marchionne’s shock passing meant those plans were put on hold, but his successor as Chairman John Elkann is set to replace Arrivabene with Binotto.
Binotto has gradually risen through the ranks since joining Ferrari in 1995, becoming its Chief Technical Officer in mid-2016, and received credit for his role in rejuvenating its prospects after early struggles in the hybrid era.
A Ferrari spokesperson opted not to provide an official comment when contacted by Motorsport Week, in response to the report published in the Gazzetta dello Sport on Monday.
The move is also set to have a knock-on effect at Ferrari, with Laurent Mekies – who joined from the FIA in September – thought to take on an increased role.
