Luca Furbatto appointed Aston Martin engineering director

The signing of the Italian engineer is the first of a number of "significant new hires" according to the team, with technical director Andrew Green promoted to the role of chief technical officer with immediate effect.

Furbatto has been with Sauber since 2017, having had previous experience with BAR, Toyota, McLaren, Toro Rosso and Manor, and will report directly to Green upon his arrival.

From 2022, Furbatto will be involved in both trackside and factory-based operations.

"As we continue to add weight to our technical team, we are hugely excited that Luca Furbatto has chosen to join Aston Martin," said Aston Martin team principal Otmar Szafnauer. "Working with our existing Engineering Group, he will bring a valuable perspective and knowledge to help shape our approach in the short and medium term.

"This appointment coincides with Andrew Green stepping up to a new role where he will take a global perspective on the company's mid to long-term technical strategy."

"It is very exciting to join Aston Martin as engineering director," Furbatto added.

"It is a project that has all the ingredients for success – committed leadership, a talented workforce, and fresh investment in resources. I am looking forward to playing my part in establishing this team at the very top of the sport."