Otmar Szafnauer is a senior Formula 1 executive whose career spans more than three decades at the sharp end of global motorsport. Born in Romania and raised in Detroit, Otmar combined technical curiosity with commercial ambition from an early age. He earned a degree in electrical engineering before completing a master’s in business and finance, a rare blend that would define his leadership style. His early career at Ford Motor Company laid the foundations in programme management and operational discipline that later proved vital in Formula 1. That grounding in engineering detail and boardroom strategy allows Otmar to speak with authority to both technical specialists and senior executives.
His move into Formula 1 began with Operations Director at British American Racing, where he oversaw planning, manufacturing, quality control and car build processes. Otmar later became Vice President of Honda Racing Development and a member of the Honda F1 Management Board, advising on regulatory and commercial negotiations with the FIA and Formula One Management. He also chaired the Engine Manufacturers Working Group, collaborating with leading automotive brands to shape the sport’s engine regulations. These roles placed him at the centre of some of the most complex negotiations in modern F1, balancing performance, politics and long-term strategy.
In 2009, Otmar joined Force India as Chief Operating Officer, transforming a struggling team into a consistent top-four finisher in the Constructors’ Championship. He led the organisation through administration without losing a single employee, protecting culture and capability during financial crisis. As CEO and Team Principal of Racing Point, he guided the team to victory at the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix and fourth in the World Championship, outperforming significantly larger competitors. He continued as CEO when the team became Aston Martin, recruiting elite talent including four-time World Champion Sebastian Vettel.
Most recently, Otmar served as Team Principal of the Alpine F1 Team, introducing cultural change and strategic clarity while steering the team to one of its strongest championship results. Alongside his trackside leadership, he founded Soft Pauer and launched the official Formula 1 Timing App, demonstrating entrepreneurial drive and digital innovation. On stage, Otmar delivers practical insight into leading under pressure, building psychological safety, navigating crisis and aligning performance with purpose. He shares real examples from pit wall decisions, boardroom negotiations and factory floors, equipping audiences with lessons drawn from one of the most competitive environments in world sport.
