David Sanchez (engineer)
David Sanchez | |
|---|---|
| Born | January 31, 1980 France |
| Occupation | Engineer |
| Years active | 2005–present |
| Known for | Formula One engineering, aerodynamics |
David Sanchez (born 31 January 1980) is a French engineer specializing in Formula One, having held positions at Renault, Ferrari, and McLaren. In 2024, he assumed the role of Executive Technical Director at Alpine.
Career
Sanchez embarked on his motorsport journey after completing his education at the École nationale supérieure de mécanique et d'aérotechnique, starting as a junior aerodynamicist with Renault in 2005. Two years later, he moved to McLaren, taking on the role of senior aerodynamicist. He subsequently progressed to lead the aerodynamics team, playing a key part in developing the pioneering F-Duct system featured on the McLaren MP4-25.
In October 2012, Sanchez transitioned to Ferrari as Principal Aerodynamicist. He advanced to chief aerodynamicist by 2016 and took charge of the entire aerodynamics department starting in 2019. By 2021, he was elevated to chief engineer, vehicle concept, managing the design and development process for Ferrari's 2022 race car.
Sanchez departed Ferrari in March 2023 and rejoined McLaren in 2024 as technical director responsible for car concept and performance, succeeding James Key. However, on 2 April 2024, he left McLaren by mutual agreement due to differences between his strategic vision and the position's practical demands. Shortly thereafter, on 2 May 2024, Alpine announced his appointment as Executive Technical Director.