How two ex-Ferrari top F1 engineers divide their responsibilities at Mercedes

Mercedes Gears Up for Future with Ex-Ferrari Engineers

Mercedes has brought in former Ferrari engineers Simone Resta and James Allison to bolster its Formula 1 team as they gear up for the upcoming seasons. Resta, who joined as deputy technical director last October, is collaborating closely with Allison, the technical director, to reshape the team’s strategy for both immediate and long-term challenges.

Dividing Responsibilities at Mercedes

With the experienced duo in place, Resta and Allison have efficiently divided their responsibilities. As Resta explained in an exclusive interview, “James has the overall vision of the entire technical part and focuses mainly on the 2026 project, while I am dedicating myself to 2025.” This delegation of tasks ensures a balanced approach to both short-term objectives and long-term innovations.

Resta’s Transition from Ferrari

Simone Resta’s career at Ferrari spanned over a decade, where he rose from junior designer to technical director after secondments with Sauber and Haas. Although some may view his deputy role at Mercedes as a demotion, the larger structure of the Mercedes team requires a more extensive management layer. Resta emphasized, “I focus more on the overall car development and the integration of new technologies.”

A Strong Working Relationship

The camaraderie between Resta and Allison, who have collaborated in the past, is set to benefit Mercedes significantly. Resta noted, “Our past experience at Ferrari gives us a strong base, and we know how to work together to tackle any challenge.” Their mutual respect and complementary skills are expected to lead to enhanced performance for Mercedes on the track.

Preparing for Upcoming Challenges

In addition to focusing on the 2025 season, Resta is tasked with adapting the team’s technical infrastructure to meet the evolving demands of Formula 1. “It is about adapting all work processes to the evolution of F1,” he explained. This forward-thinking mindset is crucial as Mercedes aims to reclaim its competitive edge in the premier racing series.

As Mercedes continues to refine its technical strategy, the integration of Resta and Allison is a pivotal move that reflects the team’s commitment to staying ahead in the rapidly changing world of Formula 1.