Julian Jakobi

Biography

Julian Jakobi, born in 1947 in the United Kingdom, is a prominent sports manager and agent known for representing some of the most celebrated drivers in Formula 1. He began his career in finance before transitioning to motorsports management, joining International Management Group (IMG) in the 1970s. While at IMG, he became Ayrton Senna's personal manager, guiding the Brazilian driver through pivotal career moves, including his successful stints with Lotus, McLaren, and Williams. Jakobi is best known for simultaneously managing both Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost—two fierce rivals during the 1980s and early 1990s—a unique and challenging role that required significant diplomatic skill and industry knowledge. After Senna's passing, Jakobi continued to represent top drivers and other sports personalities. He later co-founded his own sports management firm, which has represented stars like Juan Pablo Montoya and David Coulthard. With a career spanning over four decades, Jakobi is highly respected in the motorsports industry for his expertise in contract negotiations and career management, playing a vital role in shaping modern driver representation in Formula 1.