Elkann and Vigna speak out as connections to Horner come to light.

      "Our objective was to win races."

      Ferrari's top management has made a public statement in response to increasing unrest at their Maranello headquarters, with new speculation linking former Red Bull chief Christian Horner to a potential future role at the Italian team. Following reports of urgent crisis meetings among Ferrari chairman John Elkann, CEO Benedetto Vigna, and team principal Frederic Vasseur, both Elkann and Vigna offered uncommon public comments during Ferrari’s Capital Markets Day event.

      Vigna specifically addressed the performance of Ferrari, acknowledging that the team has not lived up to expectations. "Our objective was to win races," he stated. "We accomplished that with the 499P in endurance racing, but in Formula 1, we need to enhance our performance. Winning is essential as it is our obligation to our dedicated fans worldwide."

      Elkann, on the other hand, framed his statements as a personal reaffirmation of his belief in Ferrari's identity and its employees. "I am dedicated as the chairman, as the majority shareholder, and, above all, in the name of a lifelong passion of mine - my passion for Ferrari," he affirmed. "We will persist in investing, innovating, and building. We will continue to attract and develop extraordinary talents and year after year demonstrate the distinctiveness of Ferrari."

      These remarks follow weeks of growing speculation regarding renewed instability within the team. Charles Leclerc’s management has hinted at the possibility of his departure after 2026, while Oscar Piastri has been rumored to be in line for a Ferrari seat in 2027. Despite Vasseur’s recent contract extension, reports from Italy and Germany indicate that trust in his leadership is "fragile" after yet another inconsistent season.

      Journalist Ralf Bach from f1-insider.com has suggested that Elkann is already considering alternatives, including Horner, who has recently wrapped up his exit from Red Bull and reportedly agreed to a reduced payout. Bach noted, "It’s evident why Horner is pursuing this. He wants to avoid a trial as he is currently seeking employment, perhaps even with Ferrari. If he sees a genuine opportunity there, recent developments make considerable sense."

      He further mentioned, "Despite the contract extension, Ferrari seemingly wants to part ways with Vasseur, and John Elkann appears to be genuinely intent on securing Christian Horner." Bach warned that such a move could complicate any future efforts by Ferrari to approach Max Verstappen, particularly since Verstappen's inner circle had a falling out with Horner last year.

      "They seem unaware that they are potentially closing the door on Verstappen," he commented. "Horner has 14 world championship titles to his name. Elkann is perceived as a highly emotional individual who cares more about today's sentiments than what he thought yesterday."