Ferrari’s Elkann issues statement – fully backs Vasseur

Ferrari chairman John Elkann has moved swiftly to quash speculation linking former Red Bull team boss Christian Horner with a move to Maranello, issuing a strong public statement of support for Scuderia chief Fred Vasseur.

The backing comes after a swirl of rumours suggesting Ferrari might seek a leadership change following Horner’s official departure from Red Bull.

But Elkann was unequivocal in his message, insisting that Ferrari’s faith in its current team principal and structure remains unshaken.

“I want to express our full confidence in our Team Principal, Fred Vasseur, and in the work he is carrying out together with all our colleagues at Scuderia Ferrari – the mechanics, engineers, and drivers competing this weekend in Austin,” Elkann stated.

“I also want to reaffirm the importance of teamwork by everyone to maintain focus on the only goal that matters: always giving our very best on the track.”

Hamilton Calls Rumours “Distracting”

The speculation around Horner’s future and Ferrari’s leadership didn’t escape the attention of the team’s drivers, who addressed the subject ahead of the United States Grand Prix weekend.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who will join Ferrari in 2026, urged the paddock to move on from the gossip and let the team focus on progress under Vasseur’s leadership.

“I mean, I don't know whether I can really shed much light on that, but it's a little bit distracting for us as a team,” Hamilton said.

“Obviously, the team have made it clear where they stand in terms of re-signing Fred, and Fred and I and the whole team are working really hard on the future for the team. So these things naturally aren't helpful.”

Hamilton’s comments underline Ferrari’s intent to maintain continuity as it prepares for the next major rules reset in 2026, when his arrival is expected to coincide with a renewed push for championship glory.

• Read also: ‘I knew I’d get s**t!’ – Vasseur shrugs off Ferrari mayhem

Charles Leclerc echoed Hamilton’s sentiments, expressing frustration at the constant speculation surrounding both the team and its drivers.

“There are lots of speculations around me, but just in general around the team for whatever reason, I feel like there are too many people speaking things not coming from actual facts and it's just a little bit annoying,” Leclerc said.

“It's always been like that. And I think as a driver, but I think as a team, we've just got to focus on our things, which is what we are doing.”

Elkann’s intervention and the drivers’ united front signal Ferrari’s determination to end the chatter and reinforce stability as the Scuderia looks to close out the season strongly.

With both Hamilton and Leclerc publicly backing Vasseur, Ferrari’s leadership appears aligned in purpose — leaving the rumours firmly in the rear-view mirror.

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