Full Breakdown
Ferrari Reaffirms Support for Fred Vasseur Amid Horner Speculation
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
On September 29 2026 Ferrari held an unscheduled virtual press conference to address media chatter about team principal Fred Vasseur after former Red Bull boss Christian Horner said in *The Times* that a Ferrari role was “the dream.” Ferrari’s chief communications officer Maria Conti spoke for chairman John Elkann and CEO Benedetto Vigna, stating the team’s “full confidence” in Vasseur and urging focus on the upcoming Malaysia race weekend.
Background & Context
Vasseur joined Scuderia Ferrari at the start of 2023 and signed an extension in July 2025, securing his contract through at least 2027. The 2026 season began with optimism that new chassis and engine regulations would restore competitiveness. The car’s chassis has been praised, but the power unit trails Mercedes and Red Bull, leaving Ferrari second in the Constructors’ Championship, 160 points behind Mercedes and 72 points ahead of McLaren. The team has won two races this year (Leclerc and Hamilton) but has not reached a podium in the last five Grands Prix.
Data & Statistics
- Constructors’ standing: 2nd, 160 points adrift of Mercedes, 72 points ahead of McLaren.
- Wins in 2026: 2 (Leclerc, Hamilton).
- Podium-less streak: 5 races.
- Vasseur’s contract: extension through at least 2027.
- Media call date: September 29.
Official Statements & Responses
Conti emphasized that Ferrari’s “position is clear and unchanged” and that the team “has made its choices” regarding leadership. She reiterated that Ferrari is “fighting for P2” and that speculation is “not in my hands.” Elkann and Vigna did not issue separate comments, but Conti noted both executives are aligned in backing Vasseur. Horner’s interview was framed as personal ambition rather than an official offer, and Ferrari confirmed no vacancy exists.
Criticism & Opposition
Lewis Hamilton, while supporting Vasseur, warned the rumors are “distracting” for the team, highlighting concerns that speculation could affect morale.
Verbatim Quotes
- “At this stage in my life, there’s only one team for which I would accept non-participation in ownership,” — Christian Horner.
- “We are not working in perfect serenity,” — Fred Vasseur.
- “Ferrari's position is clear and unchanged,” — Spokesperson.
- “We have full confidence in Fred Vasseur and in his team,” — Ferrari statement.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Media have floated possible successors for Vasseur, naming Antonello Coletta, Jérôme d’Ambrosio, and Horner. No official source has confirmed any succession plan, and reports differ on whether internal discussions about Vasseur’s future have taken place.
What’s Next
The next Grand Prix is the Bahrain GP in Malaysia, scheduled for October 2–4 2026. The Malaysian weekend will test whether the team can translate its stated confidence into on-track results.