Ferrari teams face mounting pressure as team principal Frederic Vasseur gains a powerful ally in Williams’ James Vowles amid a challenging 2025 Formula 1 season
Vasseur, under intense scrutiny from Italian media, has endured criticism over Ferrari’s failure to contend for the championship despite high pre-season expectations.
Ten races into the 24-race calendar, Ferrari teams have struggled to match their rivals, prompting vocal dissatisfaction from fans and the press. Reports surfaced that Ferrari CEO John Elkann held discussions with Red Bull’s Christian Horner about a potential move to Maranello, though Horner dismissed any interest in the role.
This speculation has only heightened the scrutiny on Vasseur and his staff, with the 56-year-old Frenchman expressing frustration over the media’s targeting of his team members.
“It’s hurting the team,” Vasseur said, defending his staff. “I can manage the pressure as team principal, but it’s unfair to those who work for me.”
Vowles, a respected figure in the paddock, echoed Vasseur’s sentiments, condemning the media’s impact on individuals. “I’ve known Fred for about 20 years,” Vowles told reporters.
“He’s an incredibly good leader, shouldering all of this because that’s our job. I’ve seen the press destroy people with a single line written without full knowledge of the situation.”
Vowles praised Ferrari’s progress under Vasseur, noting, “They are competitive and moving forward. Simple as that.” He also highlighted the broader influence of media coverage, saying, “Words have power, both positive and negative.”
As Ferrari teams prepare for the Austrian Grand Prix, set for 71 laps around the 4.318-kilometer Red Bull Ring on June 29, Vasseur’s leadership remains in the spotlight. With Vowles’ public backing, Ferrari aims to silence their critics with a strong performance in Spielberg.
