The Formula 1 season 2025 is already shaped by spectacular twists, but Ferrari’s latest announcement has caused shock waves in the paddock. In a step as brave and unexpected, the Scuderia decided to extend the contract of its team manager Frédéric Vasseur by 2030 and at the same time assign an extended role in the team. This decision, known by observers as “crazy”, redefines Ferrari’s ambitions and triggers heated debates among fans and analysts.
Since his arrival in Maranello in 2023, Vasseur Ferrari has redesigned and a team who has chased new life after fame since his last design title in 2008. Under his leadership, Ferrari recovered his competitive strength, finished second in the design classification in 2024 and was able to continue this success in 2025. However, Vasseur put the most recent setbacks, including tensions with Lewis Hamilton and technical problems with the SF-25. This contract extension and the associated expansion of its role are considered to be clear proof of trust in Ferrari management.
Vasseurs new role is the focus of the discussions. According to insiders, he will now not only lead the Formula 1 team, but also the development of future automotive projects from Ferrari, including hypercar and long-distance racing initiatives. The change announced at a press conference in Maranello surprised observers who had expected a moderate restructuring after a lack of 2025 season. Ferrari chairman John Elkann said: “Frédéric embodies the future of Ferrari. His vision and leadership are crucial to bring the Scuderia back to the top.”
This announcement comes at a tense time. The inconsistent performance of the SF-25, characterized by a recurring technical problem that cost a tenth round, has caused sharp criticism in Italy. La Gazzetta Dello Sport described the season as a “technical nightmare”, while Corriere Della Sera Vasseurs criticized strategic decisions, in particular the task of developing the SF-25 to concentrate on the 2026 car, project 678. This risky game influenced by Hamilton has split the Tifosi: some see it a visionary strategy, others an admission of the failure of the current season.
Nevertheless, Vasseur managed to assert himself between his drivers through the clever management of relationships. The team could have destabilized the rivalry between Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, which was still exacerbated by the regular podium places of the Monegassen. But Vasseur saved a remarkable cohesion, as the incident showed at the Grand Prix of China, where he made it clear that the position exchange between the two drivers on Hamilton’s initiative and not to be instructed by the team. This transparency strengthened its credibility, even in the face of media criticism.
However, Vasseurs extended responsibility raises questions. Some analysts, such as those of Motorsport.com, consider it risky to transfer the management of Formula 1 and the automotive projects to a single person. Ferrari relies on Vasseurs ability to juggle these roles, but the full Formula 1 calendar with 24 races in 2025 could make the task more difficult. In addition, the expectations of the Tifosi are enormous: a world championship title that the drivers have not been able to win since 2007 and the designers since 2008 is essential.
This crazy decision could redefine Ferrari’s future. If Vasseur succeeds in realizing his vision, especially with the 678 project, he could become a legend at Scuderia. But failure in such a relentless environment as Formula 1 could weaken its position. The next Grands Prix, starting with that in Japan, will be crucial to prove that Ferrari has made the right decision. One thing is certain: with Vasseur at the helm until 2030, the Scuderia is not lacking in ambition, and the F1 world keeps your breath away in the face of this daring risk.
