Ex-F1 team boss outpaces Christian Horner in finding a new role in motorsport

Van Amersfoort Racing competes in Formula 2, Formula 3, FREC and Formula 4, and will be in action this weekend in Australia in the first two series.

Szafnauer now becomes the team's CEO and Managing Partner. He will "guide and work closely with this leadership team to ensure continued success, on and off track improvement, and support the organization’s strategic objectives," the team reports.

He said: "Van Amersfoort Racing has a strong reputation for developing talent and competing at a high level across multiple categories. I look forward to working closely with the leadership team and the wider organisation to guide the next phase of the team’s development."

Team principal Brad Joyce added: "Otmar’s experience and leadership add valuable perspective to the organisation. His appointment significantly strengthens VAR as we continue to evolve and pursue our long-term vision."

Szafnauer previously worked at Aston Martin (and its predecessors Force India and Racing Point) and Alpine in Formula 1. He was relieved of duties as team principal at the French team after the 2023 Belgian Grand Prix.

Szafnauer was flying with Delta Airlines in the United States when the engine suddenly failed as the aircraft was taking off.

The plane safely completed its emergency landing, leaving no one injured after the frightening incident. Szafnauer also took a selfie with the pilots, thanking them for their excellent job.