Carlos Sainz believes Ferrari’s decision to hand team principal Fred Vasseur a multi-year contract extension was aimed at quieting rumours.
The announcement, made on Thursday morning, confirms Vasseur will remain in charge through the 2026 Formula 1 season and beyond.
Speculation around Vasseur’s position had been mounting for weeks, sparked by Ferrari’s disappointing start to the 2025 campaign.
Rumours began circulating during the Canadian Grand Prix, with reports suggesting the Scuderia had even approached Christian Horner – recently departed from Red Bull – as a potential replacement.
Antonello Coletta, head of Ferrari’s World Endurance Championship operation, was also believed to be under consideration.
Speaking ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, Williams driver Sainz – who raced for Ferrari under Vasseur in 2023 and 2024 – shared his thoughts on the move.
“I didn’t even know he needed a renewal or anything,” said Sainz.
“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.”
Sainz enjoyed considerable success during Vasseur’s tenure, winning three of his four career races under the Frenchman’s leadership. Despite this, he was replaced for the 2025 season by seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton.
