Szafnauer had long been expected to quit his role at Aston Martin, and Autosport reported back in November that he was ready to take on a leadership role with rival Alpine team.
Szafnauer said he had “no intention” to leave Aston Martin and signed a long-term contract after dismissing reports as “pure media speculation and not based on fact”.
But Aston Martin announced on Wednesday that Szafnauer has left his role as team principal and CEO of its F1 squad.
“Otmar Szafnauer has left the company and his role with the Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One Team will be held within the executive team until a replacement is appointed,” the statement said.
“We would like to thank him for the work he has done for the team over the past 12 years and wish him all the best for the future, as he will undoubtedly face new challenges.
“Fortunately, we are led and directed by a strong group of individuals and we like to take some time to explore options before announcing a new team structure.
“The team is currently focusing on preparing a car that is as competitive as possible for the start of the 2022 season.”
Sebastian Vettel, Aston Martin AMR21
Photo by: Zak Mauger / Motorsport Images
Szafnauer first joined the Silverstone-based roster in 2009 when it was known as Force India. He played a pivotal role in managing the financial troubles it faced in 2018 before it was acquired by Lawrence Stroll, who eventually renamed the roster Aston Martin for 2021.
In September, Aston Martin hired former McLaren F1 boss Martin Whitmarsh as Group CEO of its performance technology division. However, Szafnauer said Whitmarsh’s arrival did not affect his role on the team.
At the weekend of the Brazilian Grand Prix, it emerged that Szafnauer might switch to Alpine, but no news has been announced about his future plans.
Over the weekend in Interlagos, Szafnauer said he was “as surprised as anyone” to read reports that he might switch to Alpine, but did not deny having been in contact with the team.
