Elkann praises Ferrari WEC team but assesses F1 challenges

John Elkann reflected on Ferrari’s 2025 season, highlighting the remarkable achievements of the WEC team while offering a clear-eyed assessment of the Formula 1 squad. “Ferrari has always understood that racing is as much about learning as it is about winning,” said the Ferrari President.

WEC triumphs and a return to glory

In his letter to Exor shareholders, John Elkann summarized the milestones reached by Ferrari in 2025. In the Hypercar category of the World Endurance Championship, Ferrari reclaimed both the drivers’ and constructors’ world titles, thanks to the exceptional work of Antonello Coletta and his team. The Scuderia also secured another victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and took the GT3 World Cup at Macau. These accomplishments, more than half a century after Ferrari’s last endurance world title, underscore the incredible team spirit shared by mechanics, engineers, and drivers alike, all working toward a common goal.

Ferrari’s return to endurance racing was carefully considered. John Elkann revealed that the decision to come back was made during the challenging COVID isolation period, making the subsequent victories even more meaningful. The centennial edition of Le Mans marked Ferrari’s triumphant return after fifty years, followed by three consecutive wins with three different driver line-ups, demonstrating the team’s unity and collective strength.

The F1 challenge: learning from setbacks

On the other side of the coin is the Formula 1 team, which has yet to secure a world title since 2008, at least in the Constructors’ Championship. While 2024 offered hope, 2025 saw a downturn marked by a series of errors. John Elkann addressed this candidly: “Formula 1, on the other hand, did not achieve its ambitions. But Ferrari has always understood that racing is about learning as much as winning. Enzo Ferrari, the founder, maintained what he called a ‘museum of mistakes’—a collection of broken parts gathered in pursuit of progress. This mentality remains crucial today. Responsibility and determination to return stronger are at the heart of Ferrari’s philosophy.”

Looking ahead

John Elkann’s reflections remind fans that while Ferrari shines in endurance racing, its F1 squad still faces significant challenges. The WEC successes prove the team’s ability to collaborate, innovate, and execute flawlessly under pressure, offering lessons that the Formula 1 team can apply to close the gap with rivals. For Ferrari, 2026 is a year to build on these lessons, combining past triumphs with the pursuit of future victories on the F1 grid.