Official: James Allison leaves Ferrari with immediate effect

This had been the subject of persistent rumors for several weeks, especially since Sergio Marchionne, president of the FIAT Group, owner of the prancing horse brand, had come to the Maranello factory to organize meetings aimed at improving the team’s performance. A mutual agreement has thus decided on the departure of James Allison with immediate effect.

James Allison had joined Ferrari in 2014 from the Lotus team with which he had achieved several victories, at the same time as Kimi Räikkönen: “During these years at Ferrari, in different stages and different roles, I have been able to understand and appreciate the value of the team and the people, men and women, who are part of it. I wish everyone a happy and victorious future,” commented Allison in a statement.

The 2015 season was promising. The Italian team had made significant progress by getting closer to Mercedes and securing three victories through Sebastian Vettel, the new addition to the team. The ambitions for the 2016 season were high, with the title being mentioned as a goal. Unfortunately, the start of the season was disappointing for the Scuderia, which suffered from a glaring lack of reliability and saw Red Bull catch up and even regularly place ahead.

“The team would like to thank James for his commitment and sacrifices during the time spent together and wish him success and serenity in his future endeavors.” declared Maurizio Arrivabene, sporting director of the Ferrari F1 team.

Allison will be replaced by Mattia Binotto, a member of the team since 1995 and currently in charge of the power unit as chief of operations.

James Allison experienced a complicated personal situation following the death of his wife a few months ago. This departure coincides with the Briton’s desire to return to the UK to be closer to his family. Allison’s future seems to be heading towards the Enstone factory, which was bought by Renault at the end of last season.