Fred Vasseur Faces FIA Fine After Harsh Attack on Italian Media

Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur is facing a possible fine from the FIA after an intense exchange with the Italian media during the official team principals’ press conference ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix. This situation followed a week of rumors in an Italian newspaper suggesting Vasseur could lose his position if Ferrari’s form did not improve.

Ferrari currently sits second in the constructors’ standings but trails championship leaders McLaren by 197 points. The SF-25 car has only secured three podiums so far, all through Charles Leclerc, and a single sprint race victory by Lewis Hamilton.

Speculation has been swirling around the team, with recent Italian media stories claiming Lewis Hamilton might retire at season’s end and Charles Leclerc could be seeking an exit from Maranello. Reports of possible staff changes have added further tension.

Both Hamilton and Leclerc spoke out in support of Vasseur on Thursday to dampen rumors before the Montreal race weekend. On Friday, Vasseur addressed the press directly, confronting the rumors and the negative coverage’s effect on team morale.

During the press conference, Vasseur joked that he would have to “stay calm” to avoid seeing the stewards. New F1 regulations introduced this year prohibit the use of profanity during media engagements, with offenders risking fines.

When questioned about the rumors and media criticism, Vasseur defended his team, saying, “It’s some Italian media, not all Italian media. It’s not about myself, I think, because this I can manage. It’s more about the people of the team.” He explained that publicly naming staff causes distress to their families, calling the approach disrespectful.

Vasseur became animated while describing the situation, using an expletive: “Perhaps it is to give shit to the team, but in this case, I don’t see the point.” Whether this comment results in an official complaint depends on the FIA’s media delegate at the event.

He continued with pointed remarks, suggesting some journalists create drama for attention, which distracts the team when focus is essential. “If it’s their target to put the team in this situation, they have reached their goal,” he noted, emphasizing that such tactics hinder the pursuit of championships.

Vasseur defended his position as team principal, admitting public speculation comes with the job. However, he insisted the main problem is how these stories impact hardworking team members.

He explained, “They are working very hard, and [for the Italian media] to decide one day that this one will be replaced, this one is useless, honestly, it’s very, very harsh. These journalists have to consider that these people have families, wives, kids, and this is completely disrespectful.” Vasseur added that he did not wish to discuss the media rumors further, closing the subject firmly.

The FIA now has to decide whether Vasseur’s outburst, particularly the use of profanity, crosses the official threshold for sanctions. Stewards have the discretion to interpret the rules and could impose a fine if they deem his comments a breach.

As the Canadian Grand Prix weekend continues, attention has shifted to whether disciplinary action will follow or if focus in Montreal will return to the on-track battles between Ferrari, McLaren, and their rivals. The dynamics between top teams remain crucial, especially considering recent incidents like the Verstappen-Russell clash.

Lewis Hamilton’s recent performances, including his notable sprint race victory, continue to attract headlines, reflecting ongoing discussions around his future in F1 (Hamilton Spanish GP verdict).

Meanwhile, speculation about Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton’s season outcomes often intersect with broader analyses, such as the recent Ferrari Lewis Hamilton verdict, which offers perspective on the team’s challenges and opportunities.

John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.