Mario Isola

Mario Isola is the motorsport director of Pirelli and has been responsible for Formula 1 tires since 2011. He also oversees tire supply in Formula 2 and Formula 3. The Italian is a familiar and influential figure in the paddock and plays a key role in both the strategic and technical aspects of racing.

Isola was born in Milan and began his career as a karting and test driver in Italy. Early in his career, he focused on developing tires for road cars. Since 2003, he has been active in motorsport, specializing in GT racing and rally cars. His expertise led to his appointment in 2011 as head of Pirelli’s Formula 1 division, at the time when the brand became the sport’s exclusive tire supplier.

In his current role, Isola is responsible for developing tires that meet the extreme demands of Formula 1. He oversees aspects such as wear, grip, compounds, performance, and durability. During Grand Prix weekends, he also represents Pirelli, presenting the fastest and most likely strategies based on data. In addition, he directs tire development in Formula 2 and Formula 3.

Remarkably, alongside his demanding role in Formula 1, Isola is also active as a volunteer in emergency medical services. As an ambulance driver and paramedic, he works evening shifts in Milan. During the coronavirus pandemic, he received international recognition for his commitment: active in the F1 world by day, volunteering on the ambulance by night.

Isola’s exact salary is not publicly known but is estimated to be several hundred thousand euros per year. Having worked for over a decade in a senior Formula 1 role, it is assumed he earns a substantial income. Reliable figures about his net worth are not available.