Ferrari say team has ‘made its choices’ and there’s no vacancy for Christian Horner

Ferrari have reaffirmed their backing for their team principal, Fred Vasseur, in an effort to end speculation that Christian Horner was being considered as a potential replacement for the Frenchman.

Horner gave an interview in the Times last week in which he stated that leading Ferrari would be his “dream” job and the only one he would consider without having part-ownership of the team. His comments provoked debate that he could replace Vasseur, given the Scuderia’s underperformance this season.

On Tuesday, Ferrari took the unusual step of holding an unscheduled media call in an effort to close down the chatter with the team’s chief communication officer, Maria Conti, speaking on behalf of the chair, John Elkann and the chief executive officer, Benedetto Vigna.

“Ferrari’s position is clear, has not changed, and Ferrari has made its choices already. We have confidence, full confidence, in Fred Vasseur and in his team, and we continue to do so,” she said.

“Everybody, they are still creating a lot of different stories around Fred and this is not useful. We do not intend to fuel speculation or comment on assumptions coming from outside the company.”

“It is not just related to the story in the Times of Mr Horner but in general, there was other speculation also.”

Ferrari had hoped the new regulations this season would present a chance to once more compete for the title but while they are second in the constructors’ championship they are 160 points off the leaders, Mercedes. They opened the season with a strong chassis but have since been caught and all but surpassed in development by McLaren, with Red Bull closing as well.

Vasseur, who joined the team in 2023 and had his contract extended in July of last year, made it clear after the last round in Baku that speculation about his future was not helping the team. “We are not working in the perfect serenity,” he said. “But it is what it is, it’s not in my hands. Mr Horner is looking for a job – that everybody knows – everywhere. But what can I do? Just try to do my best to push the team.”

Conti noted that Horner’s interest in the position was indicative of the enduring appeal of Ferrari. “Ferrari has always attracted extraordinary interest, and it is only natural that many professionals aspire to be part of it,” she said. “It is a reflection of the strength of what Ferrari really represents.”

Elsewhere on Tuesday Aston Martin confirmed their driver lineup for 2027 will remain as Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll. Alonso’s decision to stay in F1 ends conjecture that the 46-year-old double world champion was contemplating retirement from the sport as Aston Martin endure a dismal season with an underperforming car and engine. Next year will be Alonso’s 24th full season in F1.

“It took me a little bit of time to make my decision. But now I have things very clear on my mind,” he said. “I will retire from F1 … But not yet. I still feel fast and motivated and a huge passion for F1 and for the sport. It is my life.”