Villeneuve: “Ferrari chose continuity with Vasseur, but it makes no sense if the team performs poorly”. Jacques Villeneuve questions Ferrari’s decision to keep Frédéric Vasseur as team principal.

The confirmation of Frédéric Vasseur as the team principal of Scuderia Ferrari in Formula 1 has not convinced everyone. Jacques Villeneuve, former Formula 1 driver and 1997 World Champion from Canada, believes that Ferrari has chosen the “easier” alternative by opting for continuity rather than change. Villeneuve raised concerns about the future prospects of the Prancing Horse team, highlighting that while a revolution might have been difficult to manage, maintaining stability only pays off if results follow. With the upcoming technical revolution scheduled for the 2026 season, the next year will be absolutely crucial for Ferrari’s performance.

This announcement was eagerly awaited by fans and insiders alike: the renewal of the Ferrari team principal’s contract — a pivotal and demanding role in any Formula 1 team, particularly one as high-profile as Ferrari. The responsibilities carried by the position are extensive and weighty. Changing leadership on the eve of a major technical overhaul could have been, in Villeneuve’s opinion, a sporting disaster and potentially a form of self-sabotage.

However, the renewed stability under Frédéric Vasseur must now translate into tangible results in the World Championship. The Hungarian Grand Prix appeared to offer a glimpse of victory within reach, and aside from the unexplained issues that affected Charles Leclerc, there is hope that similar opportunities will emerge in the future. The morale of the team depends heavily on such progress, especially as Ferrari already turns its focus toward 2026. With everything set to change under the new regulations, it is impossible to predict who will come out on top, but making mistakes will not be an option.

Villeneuve’s concerns: “A united group, but results are needed”
In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Jacques Villeneuve reflected on Ferrari’s decision. The Canadian admitted that it is difficult to determine whether the choice was right or wrong and acknowledged that both drivers stand firmly behind the team principal. However, he noted that the team’s results remain disappointing: “You cannot ignore the fact that there has been no progression and the team has not returned to winning ways.”

Choosing not to change is the “easier” decision, one that guarantees technical continuity within the team. Yet, results are essential: “I think the concept of continuity only makes sense when things are going well. If things are not working, it is always better to make a change.”