Ferrari claims Binotto's absence has nothing to do with Camilleri leaving

Mattia Binotto will not be present in Abu Dhabi during the last Grand Prix of the season, but according to Laurent Mekies this has nothing to do with Louis Camilleri leaving Ferrari on Friday morning. That is what he says to Sky Sports.

"No, Camilleri's choice has nothing to do with the absence of the team boss at Yas Marina. I was with Mattia in Bahrain, he didn't feel well after the Grand Prix. It has nothing to do with the corona virus, but the doctors advised him to go home to get better treatment. But it's not serious, he's fine," says Mekies, who is taking over from Binotto this weekend.

Ferrari also surprised

Camilleri has decided, for personal reasons, to resign as top executive of the Italian brand. "We received the news more or less at the same time as you from the press. We did not expect it." President John Elkann is taking the honours for the time being.

A few weeks ago, 65-year-old Camilleri contracted the coronavirus. "He has never been in serious danger, but it must have been hard for him. That may also have played a role in his decision," Mekies concludes.