Frédéric Vasseur has addressed the intense media attention surrounding Ferrari, defending his team against criticism that he believes can sometimes become unfair and personal. Speaking during the FIA press conference at Sepang, the Ferrari team principal acknowledged that pressure comes with the role but made clear that he considers protecting the people around him an essential part of his job.
Ferrari remains under constant scrutiny
One of the main Ferrari-related discussions in recent days has centred on the extraordinary level of media attention surrounding the Maranello team. The issue has become particularly relevant amid the wider debate over Ferrari’s communication and the scrutiny surrounding the team.
During last week’s press conference, Ferrari’s communication officials explained why the team had not responded sooner to the recent criticism: “Many will have wondered why we didn’t respond earlier, simply because we hoped these things would come to an end.”
That hope is difficult to fulfil because Ferrari is not, and cannot realistically be considered, a Formula 1 team like any other. This is particularly true in Italy and even more so during what has become the longest championship drought in the team’s history.
Considering both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships, Ferrari had previously never gone beyond a 16-year wait between titles, from 1983 to 1999. The team’s most recent championship, however, came in 2008, 18 years ago.
Frédéric Vasseur defends Ferrari from media criticism
During Friday’s FIA press conference at Sepang, Frédéric Vasseur directly addressed the weight and pressure that come with leading Ferrari. His comments also come at a time when Frédéric Vasseur’s position and Ferrari’s future direction have attracted significant attention.
“When you accept this role, you know both the positive and the negative side. And I expected it. What is sometimes a little unfair is when someone is blamed, and I am here to defend the team and my guys,” Frédéric Vasseur said.
The Ferrari team principal stressed that responsibility should be shared across the organisation in both successful and difficult periods. “When we win, we win as a team. But when we are struggling, I am there to defend everyone. I think that’s the right attitude from everybody: for them to defend the team principal and for me to defend them when things are difficult.”
Frédéric Vasseur says some attacks have become personal
Frédéric Vasseur also made clear that none of the pressure surrounding the role has come as a surprise to him. He knew what leading Ferrari would involve, but drew a distinction between legitimate criticism and attacks that become personal.
“Honestly, I knew what I was going to face and I’m not surprised at all. Sometimes the attacks are a little personal and that’s not okay. We need friendly media,” Frédéric Vasseur concluded.
The French manager’s comments underline his determination to shield the team during difficult moments while accepting the scrutiny that inevitably accompanies Ferrari. The broader leadership debate has remained prominent as the Scuderia works towards its future objectives, with Ferrari’s backing of Frédéric Vasseur also forming part of the recent discussion around Maranello.
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