Oct.17 (GMM) Ferrari, Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton have all moved to shut down renewed speculation that Frederic Vasseur could be replaced by Christian Horner – insisting the team remains united and focused heading into this weekend’s US GP.
Reports in Britain and Germany claimed Horner had held exploratory talks with Ferrari chairman John Elkann, but a team spokesperson told Marca that such claims are baseless.
“These rumours don’t even deserve to be commented on, really,” the Ferrari source said.
“Let’s look at the facts instead of the rumours – the fact is that our senior management renewed its confidence in Fred two months ago.”
Leclerc, speaking to Sky Italia, said the chatter had become a distraction. “It’s quite a difficult time, in the sense that there are so many things around the team that I don’t understand where they’re coming from,” he said.
“But it’s not just the rumours about Horner. That’s also why I hope for a good weekend for the team – to forget all these things and turn the page.”
The Monegasque driver also reiterated his commitment to Ferrari amid reports his management has explored alternatives. “I’ve always said I want to win with Ferrari and become world champion. Nothing has changed,” Leclerc said.
“Ferrari attracts speculation like a magnet, and people spout nonsense that isn’t based on facts. That’s pretty annoying at times.”
Hamilton, meanwhile, also dismissed the Horner stories when questioned by reporters in Austin.
“I don’t know where the rumours have come from,” he said. “It’s a little distracting for us as a team.
“The team have made it clear where they stand in terms of re-signing Fred,” added the seven time world champion. “Fred, I, and the whole team are working really hard on the future. These things aren’t helpful.
“Everyone back in the factory is working incredibly hard, focused, and these sorts of rumors can sometimes be distracting.”
Leclerc said Ferrari’s goal for the final rounds is to secure second in the constructors’ standings. “We don’t have the raw speed of McLaren, Mercedes, and Red Bull,” he acknowledged, “but we’re not even a second behind,” he said.
“If we have a good weekend, we can challenge for podium finishes – and maybe take second place from Mercedes.”
Ferrari halted development of its 2025 car early to focus on the major regulation overhaul for 2026, a decision Leclerc hopes will pay off. “We’ve stopped development to focus entirely on 2026,” he confirmed. “I hope that pays off next season.”
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
There are motorsport events, and then there is the Indianapolis 500, the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing." Next year marks Grand Prix Tours' 42nd Indianapolis 500 tour and our decades of experience and local connections provide exclusive access that few fans ever enjoy, including police escorts on race day, a Dallara IndyCar Factory tour, Gasoline Alley and Legends Day, the Driver Introduction Ceremony, and a private dinner with former Indy driver Derek Daly. Combined with excellent hotel accommodations, seamless event planning, and Grand Prix Tours' signature service, this is far more than a race weekend; it's a once-in-a-lifetime motorsport experience. With tour spaces limited each year, we encourage you to reserve your place early for the 111th Indianapolis 500.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Formula 1 at its most iconic with an unforgettable trip to the 2027 Grand Prix de Monaco. Feel the excitement as the world’s best drivers race through the legendary streets of Monte Carlo, surrounded by superyachts, Mediterranean views, and the unmistakable glamour of Monaco. From incredible race viewing to carefully selected accommodations, Grand Prix Tours brings you closer to the action at one of the most prestigious and spectacular events in all of motorsport.
SHOW PACKAGES
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the ultimate test of speed, strategy, and endurance. Watch the world's top manufacturers battle for 24 nonstop hours in one of motorsport's most prestigious events. With Grand Prix Tours handling your accommodations, transfers, and ticket options, all that's left is to experience this unforgettable bucket-list race.
SHOW PACKAGES
Feel the roar of Formula 1 at its spiritual home. Silverstone is one of the fastest and most demanding circuits in the world, where brave overtakes, lightning-fast direction changes, and flat-out commitment separate the best from the rest. Combined with the electric atmosphere created by hundreds of thousands of passionate fans, the British Grand Prix delivers a race weekend unlike any other.
SHOW PACKAGES