Former Ferrari team principal Jean Todt disclosed that Red Bull approached him after his departure from the team in 2008, but he declined the offer. Todt shared the story during an appearance on the High Performance podcast, explaining his desire to pursue philanthropy instead. He later served as FIA president from 2009 to 2021.
Jean Todt led Ferrari as team principal from 1993 to 2007, guiding the squad to seven constructors' championships and six drivers' titles. Stefano Domenicali succeeded him in 2008. Todt also held roles as general manager from 2004 and CEO from 2006, resigning as CEO in March 2008 and leaving the board in March 2009. Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz then reached out, visiting Todt at his Paris home for lunch on two occasions to discuss running the team's operations and motorsport activities. Todt rejected the proposal, stating, 'I decided in 2008 that it was time to give something back. My interest is to give something back.' He emphasized closing that chapter after managing 'an iconic brand with success,' opting instead for humanitarian efforts. 'It would be very presumptuous to say that we are changing the world, but even giving a little, see the eyes of people who are in need, who smile, make people smile, it's a win,' Todt said.
