Marko sees Ferrari weakened by Binotto/Vasseur switch

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Helmut Marko believes Ferrari has been weakened by Mattia Binotto's departure from the helm of the Scuderia and not strengthened by Frédéric Vasseur's arrival.

The 2022 season finally saw Ferrari's resurgence as a genuine title contender. But unfortunately, the Italian outfit's challenge waned as the season unfolded on the back of missteps and strategy errors, leaving rival Red Bull in charge of both of F1's championships.

At the end of last month, Binotto unexpectedly handed in his resignation to Ferrari chairman John Elkann, a decision likely forced upon the Scuderia boss by Elkann and Ferrari CEO Bendetto Vigna.

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The House of Maranello has recruited Vasseur as Binotto's successor, but Marko, like many people, was at a loss to understand the change.

"In the case of Ferrari, I don’t quite understand the change," the Red Bull motorsport boss told Auto Motor und Sport. "I consider Binotto to be an excellent technician and politician.

"He was simply overwhelmed by the task. But it would have been enough to put a sporting director at his side to support him at the track and with the strategy.

"With the new man, who has many other jobs, I see a weakening for Ferrari."

Indeed, in addition to his responsibilities with Ferrari, Vasseur will continue to oversee Spark Racing Technology, which supplies chassis to the all-electric Formula E series.

Vasseur's arrival at the House of Maranello marks the Ferrari's fourth team boss rotation in a decade, a track record that contrasts with the stability enjoyed by both Red Bull and Mercedes where Christian Horner and Toto remain in charge.

When asked if Red Bull and Mercedes have come out on top in the wake of F1's multiple team principal changes that also include McLaren and Williams, Marko said: "Definitely, through stability and continuity."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.