John Elkann, the President of Ferrari, made a rare public appearance at the 2025 Hungarian Grand Prix paddock to personally endorse the renewal of team principal Frédéric Vasseur’s contract. His presence at the Hungaroring was a clear and symbolic gesture of confidence in the French manager, following months of speculation and uncertainty earlier in the summer regarding Vasseur’s future within the Scuderia.
Speaking to Sky Sport F1, John Elkann expressed his full support for Fred Vasseur, praising the progress Ferrari has made under his leadership since his appointment in early 2023. “Fred has led the team and enabled Ferrari to make significant steps forward in recent years,” said John Elkann. “We finished second in the 2024 Constructors’ Championship and we are currently in second place this season as well. When a team is on an upward trajectory, it is crucial not only to reinforce that momentum but also to provide stability and trust. That is the spirit of Ferrari. In a dynamic of continuous improvement, it is essential to give stability in order to achieve even greater results.”
John Elkann’s comments subtly acknowledged the internal uncertainty that had surrounded Fred Vasseur’s position earlier in the season. For several weeks, doubts had circulated about whether the Maranello-based team would extend the Frenchman’s contract, especially after a challenging start to the 2025 campaign. His statements reflect an intent to move past that period and focus on sustained growth and unity.
“The first part of this season has undoubtedly been difficult,” Elkann admitted. “It is important to understand where we can grow, and I am convinced that the lessons learned during those difficult moments are fundamental. What matters most at Ferrari is not any one individual. At Ferrari, we are fortunate to have many exceptional individuals, but only when they are capable of working together with coordination and cohesion can we truly achieve great things.”
The Ferrari President referenced the team’s history, highlighting recent examples such as the triumph at the 24 Hours of Le Mans as evidence of what the team can accomplish when functioning as a united force. “Our history has shown this time and again, even recently with our victory at Le Mans,” Elkann continued. “The most important thing is to never lose the will to win. That desire must remain a constant within Ferrari.”
With this public endorsement, John Elkann has not only dispelled any lingering uncertainty surrounding Frédéric Vasseur’s leadership but has also reaffirmed the long-term vision for the Scuderia: a team driven by unity, continuous growth, and an unrelenting pursuit of victory.
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