Sainz observing the recent 'chaos' at Ferrari from the outside
For the first time in several years, Carlos Sainz is observing the current "chaos" at Ferrari from an external perspective. As another season begins in which the Maranello team appears unlikely to be champions, the Italian press has started to increase the pressure. A headline in Corriere della Sera stated: "(Charles) Leclerc has lost confidence and may leave. And (Lewis) Ferrari feels unheard."
Another aspect of the ongoing unrest involves the possibility that Frederic Vasseur is now facing a three-race ultimatum regarding improvements to the 2025 car's performance, or he could be dismissed at the season's end. The newspaper reported, "Vasseur’s work is under scrutiny from the company's upper management amid Hamilton’s criticisms and Leclerc’s uncertainties. His (Vasseur’s) position is no longer secure."
Rumors indicate that Ferrari might be looking to replace Vasseur with Antonello Coletta, the head of the increasingly successful WEC team. "Previously, he (Coletta) was approached to lead the F1 division but declined. Now that he has achieved significant success, it would be more challenging for him to refuse again," claims Corriere.
Leclerc’s confidence in the team is also reportedly in doubt. "From his close circle, it's indicated that there are questions about the contract binding him to Maranello until 2029," the newspaper noted. "He fears that in 2026, he could return to a red car that won’t keep pace with the new regulations, while Mercedes is seen as having a technical advantage due to their engine."
La Gazzetta dello Sport concurs that the "next three races will be crucial" for Ferrari's future. When questioned about the rumors, Leclerc responded in Montreal: "I don’t comment on speculation. You know that I love Ferrari. I don’t want to hear these things about Fred either, so I have no comments to make. I trust Fred as he has always trusted me," he told Sky Italia.
Regarding Hamilton's future being part of the speculations, Leclerc added: "Fred, Lewis, and I share a long-term vision and a common goal, and we want to achieve it together."
40-year-old Hamilton commented to reporters in Canada: "Please stop making things up." When asked for his thoughts on the recent crisis at Ferrari, former driver Sainz remarked on Thursday: "It's the usual situation - every time Ferrari struggles, the media tries to find someone to blame. That's why all this chaos arises."
A Ferrari spokesperson stated simply: "No comment."
Other articles
Verstappen is 'back in the game' in Canada.
Formula 1 | Red Bull has returned to the competition in Canada, according to optimistic comments from team advisor Dr. Helmut Marko. The 82-year-old had stated just a few days ago (…)
Briatore extends 'complete support' to Colapinto.
Formula 1 | Flavio Briatore has taken a step back after expressing his dissatisfaction with Franco Colapinto. The Alpine advisor recently dismissed Jack (…)
CEO suggests F1 will be in Montreal 'for an extended period'
Formula 1 | Sources indicate that officials in Montreal are getting ready to resolve the ambiguity surrounding the future of the Canadian GP. This comes after a problematic 2024 event at the (…)
Wheatley claims he isn't merely imitating Horner.
Formula 1 | According to a surprising assertion from Red Bull's former long-time sporting director, Audi-owned Sauber is already superior in certain aspects compared to Red Bull.
Lindblad receives approval for F1 race debut.
Formula 1 | The FIA has significantly enhanced Arvid Lindblad's rapid ascent to the Formula 1 grid. This comes at a time when the possibility of a one-race ban looms over Max (...)
Domenicali suggests that Imola may make its comeback to F1 in 2027.
Formula 1 | Imola might return to the Formula 1 calendar as early as 2027. This perspective comes from two influential figures - Italy's federal sports (…)
Sainz observing the recent 'chaos' at Ferrari from the outside
Formula 1 | For the first time in several years, Carlos Sainz is observing the recent turmoil at Ferrari from the sidelines. As another season begins in which (…)