Williams driver Carlos Sainz has expressed that Ferrari’s rapid decision to extend Fred Vasseur’s contract was aimed at eliminating ongoing speculation about the team principal’s position. On Thursday morning, Ferrari confirmed Vasseur had signed a multi-year deal to continue leading the Scuderia into the 2026 season and beyond, putting an end to weeks of uncertainty surrounding his role.
The background of contract doubts and leadership speculation
Rumors surged during last month’s Canadian Grand Prix suggesting that Vasseur’s future at Ferrari was uncertain, following a challenging start to the 2025 Formula 1 season. Reports indicated Ferrari explored options to replace Vasseur, including approaches to Christian Horner, former Red Bull team principal, and Antonello Coletta, who oversees Ferrari’s World Endurance Championship program. These talks reflected growing pressure on the Frenchman within the team.
Carlos Sainz on Ferrari’s intent to “cancel the noise” over team leadership
Sainz, who raced under Vasseur across the 2023 and 2024 seasons, was unaware that Vasseur’s contract was due to expire at the end of 2025. Speaking ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, he noted that Ferrari acted swiftly to clarify Vasseur’s status in order to quell rumors about potential changes.
He said,
“I didn’t even know he needed a renewal or anything. I think, from the outside, it just looks like they want to cancel the noise. Like always in Ferrari, there’s so much noise and you almost need to announce that you’re extending or staying for people not to create a rumour.”
“It’s always been the case like that over there. But I’m happy for Fred because I’m sure he will keep doing a good job.”
—Carlos Sainz, Williams driver
Fred Vasseur’s achievements and future goals with Ferrari
Since replacing Mattia Binotto in December 2022, Fred Vasseur has made a significant impact at Ferrari. The team came within 14 points of clinching the Constructors’ Championship last season, marking notable progress. His new contract underscores Ferrari’s confidence in his leadership as they continue chasing their first World Championship title in nearly two decades.
In his statement, Vasseur described the extension as a fresh challenge to maintain and improve performance. He stated:
“I’m grateful for the trust Ferrari continues to place in me. This renewal is not just a confirmation – it’s a challenge to keep progressing, to stay focused, and to deliver. Over the past 30 months, we’ve laid strong foundations and now we must build on them with consistency and determination.”
“We know what’s expected, and we’re all fully committed to meeting those expectations and taking the next step forward together.”
—Fred Vasseur, Ferrari Team Principal
Statements from Ferrari’s leadership on extending trust in Vasseur
Benedetto Vigna, Ferrari’s chief executive, emphasized the significance of this contract extension as both recognition of past efforts and a commitment to future ambitions. He affirmed the faith the organization has in Vasseur’s leadership, grounded in mutual goals and accountability.
“We move forward with determination and focus, united in our pursuit of the level of performance Ferrari has to aim for.”
—Benedetto Vigna, Ferrari CEO
Implications for Ferrari’s direction and team stability
The prompt contract renewal aims to stabilize Ferrari during a period of intense scrutiny and expectation. By removing uncertainty over the team principal position, Ferrari hopes to concentrate fully on closing the gap to their rivals and targeting a World Championship breakthrough. For Sainz and other drivers, clear leadership offers a steadier environment as the team prepares for the remainder of the 2025 season and beyond.
With Vasseur secured at the helm, Ferrari can focus on consistency and performance without distraction, fueling prospects for stronger results in the near future.
