Ferrari won't replace Sauber-bound design chief

Ferrari won't be replacing Simone Resta. The former Ferrari man will begin working with Sauber in July as technical director for them and signifies the beginning of a new relationship between both teams.

According to Autosport, this is the first step in strengthening ties between Ferrari and Sauber, with the Alfa Romeo branding on the car set to become more than just a part of the livery.

Ferrari however won't be replacing him and are instead set to divide the roles up between existing technical personnel. It also means that technical director, Mattia Binotto's vision will still be the main focus of the Scuderia moving forward.

Resta was with Ferrari for 17 years and was chief designer since the 2014 season.

The deal represents an expansion of the partnership between Sauber and Alfa Romeo/Ferrari with the working relationship set to go beyond a strictly commercial deal.