Ferrari Lures Mercedes Ace Simone Resta to Lead F1 Tech Team

Ferrari's Formula 1 team has made a significant move in its technical department, appointing former Mercedes engineer Loic Serra as the new technical director for the chassis side. This appointment marks a crucial step in Ferrari's ongoing efforts to strengthen its technical capabilities and compete at the highest level in Formula 1.

Serra's Transition to Ferrari

Serra was initially recruited from Mercedes in the summer of last year, but due to an extended gardening leave period, he has not yet begun his work at Maranello. The Frenchman is set to officially start his role on October 1st, taking over the position vacated by Enrico Cardile in July. In the interim, team principal Fred Vasseur briefly assumed the role while working on a comprehensive technical restructuring of the team.

New Technical Structure

Ferrari's press statement on Thursday outlined the refreshed technical lineup on the chassis side. Serra will report directly to Vasseur and will be responsible for overseeing several key departments, including Chassis Project Engineering, Vehicle Performance, Aerodynamics, Track Engineering, and Chassis Operations. This restructuring aims to streamline the team's technical operations and improve overall performance.

Power Unit Development

While Serra focuses on the chassis side, Enrico Gualtieri remains in place as the technical director for the power unit division. Gualtieri will continue to oversee the development of Ferrari's new engines for the upcoming 2026 rule changes, ensuring the team stays competitive in the ever-evolving world of Formula 1 technology.

Recent Performance Improvements

The announcement of Serra's appointment comes on the heels of an upturn in form for Ferrari. After struggling with floor upgrades before the summer break, the team has shown promising results in recent races. Charles Leclerc secured a surprise podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort, followed by an emotional victory for the team at their home race, the Italian Grand Prix in Monza.

Looking Ahead

As Ferrari continues to chase Red Bull and McLaren in the constructors' championship, the addition of Serra to the technical team is expected to bring fresh insights and expertise. With Lewis Hamilton set to join the team in 2025, Serra's reunion with the seven-time world champion could prove to be a powerful combination. As the Formula 1 landscape continues to evolve, Ferrari's latest moves demonstrate their commitment to reclaiming their position at the top of the sport.