At Maranello, this year’s Christmas celebration was a solemn ceremony, missing even the traditional final toast.
From festive tradition to formal ritual
Ferrari’s Christmas has always been a festive occasion. In Enzo Ferrari’s era, year-end press conferences were spectacular, marked by verbal sparring with journalists, jokes, and even a festive meal with zampone and Lambrusco. Montezemolo carried on in his own style, while Marchionne combined analysis with personal touches that were warmly received during the celebrations.
In contrast, the Christmas of the Fred Vasseur era, held just recently, felt like a sterile report on the season. The words repeated what had already been said after races: the same considerations, the same conclusions left for others to interpret. There was no deep analysis, no mea culpa, no surprises, except the announcement that the 2026 car will be revealed on January 23. One critical issue emerged clearly: Ferrari’s ongoing struggle with communication. Christmas lunch is usually a time for relaxed conversation, but that atmosphere has disappeared in recent years. Instead, the team presented an obligatory, distant ceremony, leaving before the guests—almost as if the event were a chore to get through.
A somber ceremony instead of celebration
Rather than a joyful event, it became a bleak and smile-less ceremony, contrasting with Ferrari’s traditional hospitality. Fred Vasseur delivered a predictable, non-committal assessment of the season, with no acknowledgment of responsibility. The usual narrative favored by foreign observers appeared: Italians are allegedly overly passionate about their national team. But in truth, Ferrari has often fueled its own criticism. Announcing at the start of the season the goal of winning two championships, then finishing fourth in the Constructors’ standings without a victory, highlights serious management missteps—especially when it resulted in the most disappointing season of the greatest driver of all time.
The explanation offered, two years after hiring Lewis Hamilton, falls flat: “We need to improve the relationship; it’s a matter of mindset and mutual understanding.” This again underscores the communication gaps—partly tied to on-track performance but heavily influenced by an environment unable to produce consistent results. A cultural reset is clearly needed.
Recognizing internal strengths
John Elkann often speaks of defending values. Ferrari’s strength lies in recognizing its capabilities: Fred Vasseur is a competent manager with strong internal and external relations, working with long-term perspective. Project leader Loic Serra is widely respected, as is Enrico Gualtieri, whose power units have always been top-level despite staff changes. Vice Jerome D’Ambrosio brings wisdom and tact, potentially mediating tensions created by others. CEO Benedetto Vigna, successful in other fields, remains largely invisible at Ferrari events, yet his voice could provide crucial clarity from the top.
Looking ahead to 2026
Viewed objectively, Ferrari entering 2026 is strong on paper, ready for a season that could be victorious with new regulations shaking up the landscape. “There’s a chance, we have to seize it,” said Piero Ferrari, attending the Fiorano Christmas event discreetly. He observed keenly, noting that Ferrari remains a team full of energy and determination, ready to fight back. But achieving success will require humility and the willingness to rebuild. The final toast may have been forgotten at Maranello, but it’s a reminder: past mistakes, disputes, and controversies can be overcome. Enzo Ferrari did it countless times—and so can Ferrari again.
In summary, the 2025 Ferrari Christmas lunch reflected a team in a state of clinical transition, characterized by a lack of the traditional warmth and open communication that once defined Maranello. While the technical leadership of Fred Vasseur and Loic Serra remains strong on paper for the 2026 rule changes, the article highlights a growing disconnect between the team’s public persona and its passionate fanbase. By focusing on corporate silence and avoiding accountability for a winless season, Ferrari risks losing the cohesive spirit necessary to emulate the success of rivals like McLaren. Ultimately, the piece calls for a return to the humble yet resilient mentality of Enzo Ferrari to navigate the challenges ahead.
