Stefano Domenicali has come to Fred Vasseur’s defense: the F1 CEO commented firmly on the recent rumors surrounding Ferrari’s team principal, seeking to put an end once and for all to the turmoil of recent days
Stefano Domenicali has come to Fred Vasseur’s defense: the F1 CEO commented firmly on the recent rumors surrounding Ferrari’s team principal, seeking to put an end once and for all to the turmoil of recent days. Over the past two weeks, before and after the Canadian Grand Prix, the Ferrari pit wall has been hotter than ever — with speculation ranging from clashes between Fred and Leclerc, to possible tensions with Hamilton, and even rumors of Horner’s “phantom” arrival at Maranello.
In short, much has been said, but the reality is clear: for now, Vasseur’s position is not at risk. Although his contract is set to expire at the end of 2025, John Elkann’s leadership has neither hinted at nor addressed the possibility of a change for 2026 — a move that would effectively close the chapter on Vasseur’s work after just three years.
Nevertheless, despite a season that has fallen well short of expectations so far, Ferrari remains committed to the potential of the SF-25, a car still seen as “inconsistent”: many shadows, but also glimpses of promise glimpsed in Monaco, at Imola, and in Barcelona.
Disappointing statistics and Domenicali’s words
The upcoming races in Spielberg and Silverstone will certainly show whether persisting with this challenging season is the right choice. The word “disappointing” is no exaggeration, given the expectations raised by Vasseur and the drivers themselves.
The situation looks even bleaker when one looks at the statistics: Ferrari is the only top team yet to claim a win this season, unlike Red Bull, Mercedes, and clearly McLaren. Moreover, among the leading teams, the Scuderia has the fewest podium finishes (three for Leclerc, none so far for Hamilton) compared to Mercedes’ six, Verstappen’s five, and McLaren’s sixteen.
Despite the results in this first part of the championship, Domenicali told L’Equipe, coming to Fred’s aid: “This situation is in the nature of the ‘beast’, if you’ll allow the comparison. Ferrari generates a passion that you can’t fully grasp until you’re inside.”
He then offered some advice to his French friend: “Fred realizes this more and more each day, but he must continue on the path he has set and allow those around him to shield him from this pressure. He must devote his time and energy to moving forward with his work, not to fighting rumors. Vasseur must be left in peace. He’s doing an excellent job. . I’ve told him this and I say it publicly: I believe in him”.
Photo: Scuderia Ferrari HP
