Jun.27 (GMM) After venting his fury at the Italian media two weeks ago in Canada, the start of Frederic Vasseur’s race weekend in Austria was very low profile.
One of the only mentions of the Frenchman’s name, amid raging speculation that his Ferrari contract will not be renewed, was uttered by Charles Leclerc.
He insisted the situation behind closed red doors was relatively calm.
“Every time I arrive at the track I have a smile,” Leclerc said. “I like this environment and with Fred we make a good team. We will go back to winning, also with Lewis (Hamilton), obviously.
“That’s what we are trying to do, despite the many rumours around the team.”
So far at the Red Bull Ring, the chatter around the team boss’s future has been outweighed by positive news about a Ferrari upgrade – a new floor.
There is also talk that a revised rear suspension layout, originally scheduled to debut at Spa, could be brought forward to next weekend at Silverstone.
“It’s a significant step,” said Leclerc, referring to the new floor in Austria. “Will it be enough to reach McLaren? I don’t think so. The gap is too big.
“Several small steps will be necessary.”
As for Hamilton, the 40-year-old seems only vaguely interested in 2025, making clear that his focus is not only on the 2026 project, but wider organisational matters.
“I don’t know the exact figures for how much downforce the new floor is supposed to provide,” the Briton said on Thursday.
“I wouldn’t say we’re expecting much, but fingers crossed it’s heading in the right direction.”
As for his obvious focus on the future and wider organisational issues, Hamilton added: “I’ve talked a lot about it and I don’t want to go into any more detail, because I’m not making excuses.
“We’ve had several issues on both sides – driver and car – and we’re working on it. There have been a lot of things that have happened over these weekends. Maybe one day it will be revealed all the things that have happened that have held us back.”
He then mentioned the elusive ‘F’-word.
“Behind the scenes, I’m working hard with Fred and the team to try to implement changes and improvements so that we can have long-term success,” said the former Mercedes driver.
“I’m working with Loic Serra and the whole crew on next year’s front and rear suspension and addressing the understeer issues, making sure that doesn’t continue. We want to learn from previous years and we’re learning from this year as well. All so that next year is the best we’ve ever had.
“That’s my main goal.”
Back in the Ferrari-centric media world, however, the speculation looks set to race on for now. “The results that the Scuderia is showing under Vasseur speak for themselves,” declared former Ferrari driver Rene Arnoux to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“I would like to be wrong and witness more victories for Ferrari. But when we hear the words of the team boss that he is more or less satisfied with fifth place, I cannot understand it.
“I hope that Maranello is already working hard on the development of the car for 2026, otherwise we have to admit that the team is in poor shape.”
Leclerc says he has tried the 2026 car in the simulator, and shares Max Verstappen’s admission that he has “concerns” about what the radical new rules will do to the joy of racing.
“To be honest, it wasn’t much fun,” Leclerc admitted. “But we’re still in the early stages of development.”
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Northern Italy like a true motorsport insider on our Italian Extravaganza, the perfect lead-in to the Italian Grand Prix. Journey through the heart of Italy’s legendary supercar region with exclusive access and behind-the-scenes insights into iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more. Along the way, enjoy a unique visit to a family-run balsamic vinegar producer for an authentic tasting experience. For car enthusiasts, this is the ultimate way to elevate your Italian Grand Prix weekend.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Northern Italy for the unforgettable 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With over 95 years of racing history, passionate Ferrari fans, and electrifying post-race celebrations, Monza delivers one of the most thrilling weekends in motorsport. Enjoy a seamless experience with accommodations in stunning Como, airport and track transfers, and an exclusive pre-race dinner with a racing celebrity, backed by our 40+ years of expertise at this iconic event.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES