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Ferrari extends Vasseur’s contract, quelling speculation

Ferrari has decisively ended months of speculation surrounding the future of Scuderia team principal, Fred Vasseur, by announcing a contract extension that reaffirms the Frenchman’s pivotal role in the Italian outfit’s quest for championship glory in F1.

The decision comes as a bold statement of confidence in Vasseur’s leadership, silencing rumors fueled by Italian media and ensuring stability as Ferrari prepares for the seismic regulatory changes set to reshape the sport in 2026.

Vasseur, who joined Ferrari from Sauber in 2023 to replace Mattia Binotto, has been instrumental in revitalizing the iconic team.

His arrival sparked a series of strategic behind-the-scenes changes aimed at restoring the Prancing Horse to its former dominance.

Under his stewardship, Ferrari achieved a commendable second-place finish in the 2024 constructors’ championship, a marked improvement that showcased his ability to steer the team toward competitiveness.

However, 2025 has proven more challenging, with McLaren dominating the field and Ferrari struggling to maintain its momentum, leading to whispers of uncertainty about Vasseur’s position.

Speculation intensified as reports alleged that Ferrari’s top brass had eyed Red Bull’s Christian Horner as a potential replacement, especially with Vasseur’s original contract nearing its expiration at the end of 2025.

The Italian media’s relentless scrutiny added fuel to the fire, but Ferrari’s announcement of a new multi-year deal with Vasseur has firmly put those rumors to rest, signaling a clear commitment to continuity and progress.

A Strong Foundation for the Future

“I’m grateful for the trust Ferrari continues to place in me,” Vasseur said in a statement. “This renewal is not just a confirmation - it’s a challenge to keep progressing, to stay focused, and to deliver.
“Over the past 30 months, we’ve laid strong foundations, and now we must build on them with consistency and determination.

“We know what’s expected, and we’re all fully committed to meeting those expectations and taking the next step forward together.”

Vasseur’s words reflect a steely resolve to capitalize on the groundwork he has established. His tenure has been defined by a meticulous restructuring of Ferrari’s operations, fostering a culture of innovation and resilience.

With the 2026 season looming, which will introduce sweeping technical regulations, Vasseur’s leadership will be critical as Ferrari aims to challenge for the title with its star driver lineup of Charles Leclerc and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.

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Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna echoed Vasseur’s optimism, praising the team principal’s transformative impact.

“Fred joined the Scuderia at the beginning of 2023, bringing with him extensive motorsport experience and a proven ability to develop talent and build competitive teams across all levels of racing,” Vigna said.

“Since then, he has laid a solid foundation with the ambition of returning Ferrari to the top of Formula 1.”

The contract extension not only secures Vasseur’s position but also sends a powerful message to Ferrari’s rivals and fans alike: the Scuderia is unwavering in its pursuit of excellence.

As the team prepares for a pivotal era in Formula 1, Vasseur’s renewed commitment offers a beacon of stability and ambition, setting the stage for Ferrari to reclaim its place at the pinnacle of the sport.

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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.

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