John Elkann’s recent remarks about Ferrari’s 2025 Formula 1 season have ignited controversy and discussion throughout the paddock. The Scuderia from Maranello has just endured one of its most disappointing weekends of the year, and while the WEC title victory offered a rare reason to celebrate, Elkann’s tone about the F1 campaign was far from celebratory. His unexpected statements, particularly concerning the team’s two drivers, have fueled speculation about growing internal unease.
It was a surprise statement from the Ferrari CEO, one that caught many within the organization off guard. His praise was directed solely toward the mechanics — commending their excellent pit stop work — and toward the engineers, who he said had contributed to the car’s recent improvements. While it is true that Ferrari’s performance has taken a step forward in recent races, much of that progress is also due to the team’s improved execution and the consistent efforts of Charles Leclerc, who has often maximized the potential of the SF-25 under challenging conditions.
Confusion in Ferrari’s internal communication
Carlo Vanzini, in a video shared on his personal channel, analyzed John Elkann’s comments about Ferrari’s Formula 1 department following the Brazilian Grand Prix weekend. The Sky Sport F1 commentator focused particularly on the apparent communication gap within the team, saying: “I think something needs to be fixed in the way the key figures at Ferrari communicate with each other.”
His observation referred to recent occasions where the analyses and post-race assessments provided by the team’s main figures — including both drivers and Team Principal Frédéric Vasseur — have not always aligned. Throughout the 2025 season, Charles Leclerc, Lewis Hamilton, and Fred Vasseur have at times offered contradictory evaluations of the car’s performance and potential. The recurring point of contention has been the true competitiveness of the SF-25 — a topic Charles Leclerc has often been skeptical about, while Fred Vasseur has defended the car’s pace. At the same time, both drivers have repeatedly emphasized the critical importance of flawless race execution, as reported by f1ingenerale.
Carlo Vanzini continued: “Every time someone speaks, something comes up that then needs to be fixed.” He added that this ongoing issue “requires clarification.” The Italian commentator also suggested that Elkann’s message was not aimed at Leclerc, explaining: “I don’t think he was referring to Charles. He hasn’t blamed the car for anything. I believe it was more likely a response to Hamilton’s harsh words, since he described the current situation as a nightmare.”
As Ferrari continues to navigate the pressure of balancing internal expectations and public scrutiny, John Elkann’s statements — and the reactions they have provoked — underline how fragile communication remains inside Maranello. With both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc under intense spotlight, and Fred Vasseur trying to steady the ship, clarity and unity will be essential if Ferrari hopes to regain momentum heading into the final races of 2025.
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