Ferrari’s decision to extend Fred Vasseur’s contract has drawn strong support from Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, who called any other choice “really stupid.” The move, announced between the Belgian and Hungarian Grands Prix, ends weeks of speculation surrounding Vasseur’s future as Ferrari team boss. Wolff, who has known Vasseur since their twenties, described him as a “blessing” for the Scuderia and stressed the importance of patience in Formula 1 when building a winning project.
Key Highlights
- Toto Wolff fully supports Ferrari’s multi-year extension for Fred Vasseur
- Wolff calls any alternative move “really stupid”
- Vasseur’s leadership faced pressure despite Ferrari’s second-place standing
- Rumours linked Christian Horner to the Ferrari role before the extension
- Wolff praises Vasseur’s vision, strength, and long-term value to the team
Vasseur’s Ferrari Tenure Under the Spotlight
Fred Vasseur became Ferrari team principal in 2023, replacing Mattia Binotto. His arrival marked a new chapter for the Maranello-based team, aiming to reclaim championship form for the first time since 2008. Ferrari came close last season, missing the constructors’ title by just 14 points to McLaren. The signing of seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton from Mercedes heightened expectations for the current season. However, while McLaren has surged forward, Ferrari’s performance has stalled. The team sits second in the standings, but Hamilton’s results have not matched the hype, intensifying scrutiny on Vasseur’s leadership.
Speculation and Support Amid Pressure
Persistent rumours suggested Vasseur could be replaced, with reports linking former Red Bull boss Christian Horner to the Ferrari role. Despite the team’s strong standing, doubts about its ability to consistently challenge McLaren and Red Bull added to the uncertainty. Wolff, however, was vocal in urging Ferrari to maintain stability, warning against the disruption leadership changes can cause. His backing during the speculation underscored the respect he has for Vasseur’s methods and long-term approach.
Wolff’s Public Endorsement After Extension
Following Ferrari’s announcement, Wolff reiterated his trust in Vasseur’s abilities in comments to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“I’ve known Fred since we were in our early twenties, and I know his value as a motorsport man. I know his entrepreneurial vision and his strength. Having someone like him in your team is a blessing, and you shouldn’t forget how much time it takes in Formula 1 to build a successful project.” – Toto Wolff
Wolff’s stance highlights the challenge of finding leaders capable of steering an F1 team to sustained success. His praise also reflects a shared understanding among team principals of the patience required to develop a winning organisation.
Long-Term Vision for the Scuderia
Vasseur’s extension shows Ferrari’s intent to commit to a stable leadership strategy. With Hamilton in his first season at Maranello and Charles Leclerc remaining a key driver, the team appears focused on building a cohesive, long-term plan. Wolff’s endorsement, despite being from a direct rival, reinforces the idea that leadership continuity can be as critical as technical development in Formula 1. Ferrari’s patience could prove decisive in its pursuit of breaking a championship drought that has lasted more than 15 years.
News in Brief: Toto Wolff Hails Ferrari’s Fred Vasseur
Toto Wolff has strongly backed Ferrari’s decision to keep Fred Vasseur, calling any alternative “really stupid.” Vasseur, who took over in 2023, has faced pressure despite Ferrari’s second-place position, with rumours linking Christian Horner to his job. Wolff praised Vasseur’s vision, strength, and long-term vaalue, urging patience in Formula 1 projects. The extension signals Ferrari’s commitment to stability, with Hamilton and Leclerc forming the core of its future push.
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