Ferrari Chairman John Elkann Set to Address Speculation Over Fred Vasseur’s Future Amid M… read more
Ferrari chairman John Elkann is reportedly preparing to address the swirling speculation surrounding team principal Fred Vasseur’s future, as the Scuderia finds itself under increasing scrutiny during a turbulent 2025 Formula One campaign. Reports originating from the Italian media in the days leading up to the Canadian Grand Prix claimed that Vasseur had been handed a three-race ultimatum to salvage his position at the helm of Ferrari’s F1 operations. According to those reports, if the team’s performance did not significantly improve across the triple-header stretch—including the Canadian Grand Prix, Austrian Grand Prix (June 27–29), and British Grand Prix (July 4–6)—Vasseur’s role would come under direct threat.
However, Vasseur has since publicly dismissed the rumors, labeling them unfounded and insisting that he continues to enjoy the full confidence of Ferrari’s senior leadership. Speaking to the press during the Canadian Grand Prix weekend, the Frenchman brushed off the reports, stating that there has been no such ultimatum issued to him and emphasizing the progress Ferrari has made since he took over the reins in early 2023.
Still, the pressure is undeniably mounting. Ferrari’s form in the 2025 season has been erratic, leaving fans and pundits frustrated after a promising start. Following early-season podiums and a potential title push, Ferrari has struggled with inconsistent pace, strategic missteps, and reliability concerns. Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton—Ferrari’s high-profile driver lineup—have been unable to regularly challenge Red Bull and McLaren at the front. This inconsistency has led to disappointment among the Tifosi, who had high hopes for a title resurgence this year under Vasseur’s leadership.
Amid the mounting pressure, John Elkann’s potential public intervention could serve as a turning point. Elkann, who also serves as chairman of Exor (Ferrari’s parent company), has remained largely in the background this season. His re-emergence now signals that Ferrari’s top brass may be ready to take control of the narrative and offer clarity regarding Vasseur’s long-term standing. Insiders suggest Elkann is keen to put an end to the speculation, which has become a distraction both internally and externally.
In truth, Vasseur’s time at Ferrari has been a mixed bag. He took over from Mattia Binotto with a mandate to restore Ferrari’s championship credentials. While 2023 saw modest gains in terms of team structure and qualifying performance, race-day execution remained a concern. Coming into 2025, with the arrival of Hamilton and the continuity of Leclerc, expectations were sky-high. But after a series of underwhelming races—most notably a double DNF in Imola and a strategy blunder in Monaco—the narrative has shifted from optimism to concern.
Nevertheless, many within the paddock believe Vasseur deserves more time. He inherited a complex internal culture and has implemented several changes behind the scenes, including improved collaboration between Maranello and the trackside team. Technical director Enrico Cardile and other senior figures have also backed Vasseur’s vision for long-term growth, highlighting the need for stability in a sport that often reacts hastily to pressure.
While Elkann’s endorsement could quell the rumors, the upcoming races in Austria and Silverstone are still likely to serve as informal litmus tests for Vasseur’s progress. The Austrian GP will demand strong qualifying pace and tire management, while Silverstone, a fast and flowing circuit, will test the aerodynamic efficiency of Ferrari’s SF-25 package. Should Ferrari deliver competitive results in these races, it could shift the narrative in Vasseur’s favor.
Moreover, the internal support from drivers could prove crucial. Leclerc has repeatedly voiced his support for Vasseur, whom he worked with during his Sauber days, while Hamilton—despite a tough start at Ferrari—has refrained from criticizing team management. If Elkann publicly reiterates his trust in Vasseur, and the drivers continue to back him, it could provide the breathing room needed to carry forward the team’s long-term restructuring plan.
In a sport where short-term results often dictate leadership stability, Fred Vasseur’s future hangs in a delicate balance. With Ferrari fans desperate for a return to glory and media scrutiny intensifying, John Elkann’s forthcoming statements could offer a definitive answer to the growing uncertainty. Whether it’s a vote of confidence or a prelude to deeper changes, the next few weeks may well define Ferrari’s strategic direction for the seasons to come.
