Franz Tost: The decision to resign was obvious

Franz Tost has been leading the Faenza Formula 1 team for 18 years, which now competes in the championship under the name AlphaTauri. At the end of the season, the Austrian will retire, and in a recent interview he summarized his work.

Q: In a few months you will be leaving the Formula 1 paddock as team leader. Are you used to this fact?
French toast: The reality is I’m almost 68 at the end of the season, so it’s time to stop. It’s time to pass the command on to others. I am very happy to be replaced by Peter Bayer and Laurent Mekis, two very experienced specialists in Formula 1. I am convinced that they will do better than me.

The past 18 years have been very interesting. I arrived in Faenza on November 8, 2005 and together with the great people who already worked there, we formed a great team. I must say that in those days at Toro Rosso everyone was overwhelmed with enthusiasm. It was a good time and gradually the number of employees grew. We started with 85 people.

Two years later we were already 125 and the team worked great. Dietrich Mateschitz outlined a very clear concept: we get the most out of the synergy with Red Bull Technology. He didn’t want to set up another R&D unit because it wasn’t necessary.

The second task of our team was to train young riders. And this directing also worked fantastically. We got everything from Red Bull Technology – the approach worked. In 2008 we won the home race in Monza with Sebastian Vettel, which was a very emotional moment.

However, the rivals said, “This has to be stopped, they can’t keep doing this.” Then the FIA ​​changed the regulations together with the teams, came up with a list of parts that each team must make itself. We had to make our own monocoque, front and rear wing, aerodynamic kit, diffuser, underbody…

The two or three year period proved difficult, because we had to create an infrastructure. We have a development and aerodynamic department, a purchasing department and a production department. It was a difficult but very interesting challenge. Good times.

In 2020, the team changed its name to AlphaTauri when Mateschitz founded an eponymous fashion company.

Then at Monza we won our second race with Pierre Gasly, which was very emotional. Unfortunately, the results this year have not lived up to expectations, but the season is not over yet. Hopefully we can catch up and get back to the middle of the middle group where we should be.

Q: How difficult was it to make the decision to resign?
French toast: The decision was not difficult because it was clear. When I was young and working with older colleagues, I told myself that if I ever became a leader, I wouldn’t hold this position until my old age. I’m leaving because it’s time to make room for the youth. They bring new ideas to the team, which is good.

It was clear to me from the very beginning that I would not be leading the team at the age of 70. That was clear both 20 and 18 years ago. Just because I’m not that kind of person. I want the team to progress and be successful. I think it will work with Peter and Laurent.

Question: You have always been one of those who advocated for an increase in the number of races. Given that you come to almost all races, was the calendar expansion one of the reasons for retiring?
French toast: No no. The decision has nothing to do with the increase in the number of races. The decision is due to the fact that I will be 70 soon and at this age it is difficult to bring new ideas and be open to change and new strategies for the team and Formula 1.

We’re talking about a very fast-paced company that requires constant involvement. I think young people find these things easier than older people. That’s why you have to say “Goodbye” at some point.

Q: Were you tempted to move to another team? Have you received such offers in the course of your career?
French toast: I have never been tempted, although I have received many offers from other teams. Loyalty is an important factor in my value system. In addition, I was always involved in all the important projects of the team and did not want to go anywhere. It was always interesting for us, I never had a boring job and I didn’t want to miss anything.

Q: Two Toro Rosso graduates have become world champions, Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen. Who else of your riders can you distinguish?
French toast: I have to say that we had a lot of good riders. Besides Sebastian and Max, Carlos Sainz stands out, who has done a fantastic job. I can also highlight Pierre Gasly and Daniel Riccardo, and now Yuki Tsunoda.

Jean-Eric Vergne was also good, he won the title in Formula E and that says a lot about his qualities. Sebastien Buemi has won Le Mans several times. Many racers who have achieved success not only in Formula 1 but also in other racing series have fought for us. I’m happy to know them, I got to know them better and I’m always happy when they win in another race series.

Q: What will you do after you leave Formula 1? Do you keep showing up in the paddock or do you just disappear unnoticed?
French toastA: I will have a completely peaceful retirement. I’m not sure yet, but everything will be quiet, no performances.

Q: Would you be tempted to be Helmut Marko when he retires?
French toast: No! No…