Sepang:Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur expressed confidence in his relationship with the Italian outfit's top management, despite recent scrutiny over his leadership role.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Vasseur emphasized his strong connection with Ferrari's chief executive officer Benedetto Vigna and executive chairman John Elkann. He noted that he receives solid support from the senior management team, stating, "Honestly, the relationship that I have with my bosses, Benedetto and John, is a very good one. We are in daily contact, and I can't complain at all about the organisation."
Addressing questions during a press conference at the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, Vasseur discussed whether Ferrari's leadership structure requires a review. This topic arose after seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton praised Vasseur as a fantastic leader while suggesting that the broader management structure might need attention.
Hamilton highlighted Vasseur as the right person to lead Ferrari forward and underlined the importance of stability and teamwork towards a common goal. Vasseur, in response, emphasized the necessity of collective effort for Ferrari's progress and continuous improvement, which he described as part of the team's DNA.
Acknowledging recent struggles in races, Vasseur remained hopeful that ongoing development work would help Ferrari regain its competitive edge. He also addressed the personal nature of some criticisms he has faced, stating his commitment to defending his team. "When we are winning, we are winning as a team, but when we are struggling, I'm there to defend all of them," he said.
Speculation over Vasseur's future has increased following comments from former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, who expressed interest in leading Ferrari. Despite this, Ferrari has publicly reaffirmed its confidence in Vasseur, who has been team principal since 2023.
The Bahrain GP, originally scheduled in Bahrain, is being held at Sepang from October 2 to 4, after its cancellation earlier this season due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia.