Aston Martin F1 announces departure of CEO Szafnauer

He has been part of the Silverstone-based outfit since 2009, joining when it was Force India.

Szafnauer remained a key member of the team when Lawrence Stroll took ownership midway through 2018.

The 57-year-old was linked with Alpine during the latter part of the season - rumours that he refuted.

Aston Martin confirmed that a replacement for Szafnauer hasn’t been appointed just yet and the outfit will be run by its leadership team.

"Otmar Szafnauer has left the company and his role at Aston Martin Cognizant Formula 1 team will be managed within the leadership team until a replacement is appointed," the statement read.

"We would like to thank him for the service provided to the team over the past 12 years and wish him well for the future as he will undoubtedly take on new challenges.

"Fortunately, we are led and managed by a strong group of individuals, and we are comfortable to take a little time to explore options before announcing a new team structure.

"The focus of the team is currently on preparing the most competitive car possible for the start of the 2022 season."

Aston Martin endured a difficult 2021 campaign, finishing seventh in the constructors’ championship.