Mario Isola to leave Head of Motorsport role at Pirelli as Dario Marrafuschi announced as replacement

Pirelli have announced that Mario Isola will leave his role as Head of Motorsport, with Dario Marrafuschi confirmed as the Italian’s replacement.

Isola – who has long been a key figure at the tyre manufacturer – is set to remain with the company until July 1 to ensure a smooth transition, as Marrafuschi becomes Head of Pirelli’s Motorsport Business Unit from March 1.

Marrafuschi joined Pirelli in 2008 and has since worked extensively in F1 Research and Development, as well as heading the development of the manufacturer’s road products in recent years.

In his new position, Marrafuschi will report to Giovanni Tronchetti Provera, Executive Vice President of Sustainability, New Mobility & Motorsport.

“The company extends its thanks to Mario Isola, who will remain with Pirelli until July 1, for his significant contribution to the development of the Motorsport business unit, carried out with dedication and great passion,” Pirelli said in a statement.

Pirelli’s announcement comes as the start of the 2026 season moves ever nearer, with the Australian Grand Prix set to kick off the 24-round calendar on March 6-8.

The rules reset has seen the development of new tyres for 2026, which remain 18 inches in wheel size but will have a reduced width and external diameter, making them narrower.