Ferrari's Coletta addresses rumors of replacing Vasseur as F1 team principal

Ferrari's Antonello Coletta, head of Endurance and Corse Clienti, has publicly dismissed recent speculation linking him to the role of Formula 1 team principal, affirming his strong working relationship with current boss Frederic Vasseur and stating no concrete changes are on the horizon. The Italian executive emphasized the team's focus on the upcoming regulatory shift and the importance of stability within the company.

Why it matters:

Persistent rumors of internal leadership changes can destabilize a team, especially one like Ferrari that is navigating a difficult competitive period and preparing for a major regulation change in 2026. Coletta's public backing of Vasseur and dismissal of the speculation aims to project unity and focus, which is critical as the team seeks to rebound from a disappointing fourth-place finish in the 2025 constructors' championship.

The details:

• In an interview with Sky Sport Italy, Coletta addressed the months of rumors that surfaced during Ferrari's challenging 2025 season, a period where Vasseur's position was scrutinized due to slow results.
• He framed the speculation as a normal occurrence, especially during difficult phases when people seek alternative narratives. "We all work within the same company, so I don't see anything strange in these links that surface from time to time," Coletta stated.
• The executive highlighted the current period as a critical phase of change in Formula 1 with new regulations approaching, underscoring the need to trust the existing leadership structure.
• Coletta described his relationship with Vasseur as excellent and harmonious, noting they speak openly and recently had lunch together, signaling no underlying tension.
• Ferrari's management ultimately reaffirmed its faith in Vasseur by renewing his contract, which was set to expire, effectively ending the internal speculation for the foreseeable future.

The big picture:

The leadership rumors emerged against the backdrop of a bruising 2025 season for Ferrari, where the highly anticipated partnership with Lewis Hamilton failed to yield a single podium for the seven-time champion. Charles Leclerc also endured one of his most challenging campaigns with the team. This performance pressure naturally fueled speculation about the team's direction. Coletta's comments serve to close that chapter and align the team's public messaging ahead of the crucial development cycle for the 2026 car, which will be the first fully overseen by new Chassis Director Loic Serra.

What's next:

All attention at Maranello now turns to the 2026 season and the new technical regulations. The team's immediate objective is to improve its current package, but the long-term goal is to deliver a competitive car under the new rules. Coletta's statement reinforces that Vasseur will lead that charge, with the team banking on continuity and a unified front to return to the front of the grid.