Pat Symonds will become an Executive Engineering Consultant to Andretti’s prospective Formula 1 entry once his gardening leave period from the sport is completed.
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Symonds had served as F1’s Chief Technical Officer since 2018, but it emerged on Tuesday that he had stepped down with the 2026 chassis regulations all but finalised. Andretti then revealed that Symonds will take up a role within its organisation as the American outfit continues with plans to become the latest addition to the grid.
The FIA accepted Andretti’s proposal last October, but Formula One Management (FOM), failed to provide its bid the green light amid doubts over its competitiveness. However, FOM noted that it would be prepared to reconsider the application come 2028 with the guarantee that General Motors will arrive as an engine manufacturer.
Since then Andretti has pressed ahead with recruitment plans – including ex-Renault engineer Nick Chester as Technical Director – and a new base at Silverstone Park.
Symonds will become the newest member to become involved in Andretti’s budding ambitions, with the ex-Williams engineer to come on board at an unspecified date.
“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Pat to the Andretti family,” said Andretti Global Chairman & CEO Michael Andretti. “Pat’s keen understanding of aerodynamics, vehicle dynamics and Formula One power units will be instrumental as we continue to build a competitive team. I believe his expertise has been pivotal in shaping the narrative of Formula One and his vote of confidence in joining our effort speaks volumes. I’m really happy with this next step as our work continues at pace.”
The Briton, 70, is an established name within the technical sector, having been involved with the Enstone-based squad through its various guises from 1980 to 2009. Symonds had a fundamental role in the two F1 championships Michael Schumacher and Fernando Alonso won at Enstone, while also completing stints with Virgin and Williams.
“I have had the pleasure to work with Pat in the past and he has a wealth of knowledge we can draw upon,” Chester added. “Pat will bring expertise across technical areas and team operations in his role as Executive Engineering Consultant that will help us develop the team.”
