Otmar Szafnauer Appointed CEO of Van Amersfoort Racing

Van Amersfoort Racing (VAR) has announced the appointment of Otmar Szafnauer as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Partner. Szafnauer, who brings over 30 years of motorsport experience, previously served as the team principal for the Alpine F1 Team until his departure in the summer of 2023. His new role at VAR comes at a time when the team is seeking to enhance its performance in both Formula 2 and Formula 3.

Otmar Szafnauer joins Van Amersfoort Racing as CEO and Managing PartnerPiastri’s estranged ex-Alpine boss lands new job

Szafnauer's tenure at Alpine was marked by a significant disagreement with upper management regarding a proposed cultural shift within the team. He expressed concerns about the dismissal of long-standing employees, stating, “If you get rid of people that do a good job then the message you send is ‘do a good job, get fired’.” This conflict ultimately led to his exit following the Belgian Grand Prix in 2023. Prior to his time at Alpine, Szafnauer had a lengthy career at Aston Martin, where he played a crucial role in the team's development through various iterations, including Force India and Racing Point.

Piastri’s estranged ex-Alpine boss lands new job

In his new position, Szafnauer aims to guide VAR through a critical phase of development. He emphasized the team's strong reputation for talent development and competitive performance across multiple racing categories. “I look forward to working closely with the leadership team and the wider organisation to guide the next phase of the team’s development,” he stated. Team Principal Brad Joyce echoed this sentiment, noting that Szafnauer's leadership will provide valuable perspective as VAR pursues its long-term vision.

Otmar Szafnauer joins Van Amersfoort Racing as CEO and Managing Partner

VAR has faced challenges in recent seasons, particularly in Formula 2 and Formula 3, where performance has been inconsistent. The team recently showcased a brief stint in Formula 3 with driver Tommy Smith and participated in the Formula Regional European Championship with Joey Mawson. Despite these challenges, VAR's Formula 3 efforts have shown improvement, culminating in a fifth-place finish in the 2025 Constructor’s Championship standings. Szafnauer's extensive experience is expected to be pivotal in steering the team towards greater success.

Piastri’s estranged ex-Alpine boss lands new jobOtmar Szafnauer joins Van Amersfoort Racing as CEO and Managing Partner

VAR is set to compete in the Australian Grand Prix, with two drivers participating in Formula 2 and three in Formula 3. This event will serve as an important opportunity for Szafnauer to implement his vision and strategies for the team moving forward.

Piastri’s estranged ex-Alpine boss lands new job

• “Van Amersfoort Racing has a strong reputation for developing talent and competing at a high level across multiple categories,” — Otmar Szafnauer, CEO of Van Amersfoort Racing

Otmar Szafnauer joins Van Amersfoort Racing as CEO and Managing Partner

• “I look forward to working closely with the leadership team and the wider organisation to guide the next phase of the team’s development.” — Otmar Szafnauer, CEO of Van Amersfoort Racing

Otmar Szafnauer joins Van Amersfoort Racing as CEO and Managing Partner

• “ Van Amersfoort Racing Team Principal Brad Joyce added: “Otmar’s experience and leadership add valuable perspective to the organisation.” — Brad Joyce, Team Principal of Van Amersfoort Racing

Otmar Szafnauer joins Van Amersfoort Racing as CEO and Managing Partner