Vasseur Absent from Austrian GP, D’Ambrosio Steps In
Austria, July 9, 2023 – In a surprising development ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix, Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has returned home for undisclosed personal reasons, prompting the team to appoint Jerome d’Ambrosio as acting deputy team principal for the race.
This absence follows Vasseur’s recent critique of the Italian media during the Canadian GP weekend, where he expressed frustration over pressure placed on team personnel amid Ferrari’s lackluster start to the F1 2025 season. Ferrari has struggled to compete with championship leaders McLaren, drawing scrutiny from prominent Italian publications such as Gazzetta dello Sport and Corriere della Sera.
Vasseur emphasized the human aspect of the team amid media speculation regarding potential staff changes, stating, “When a journalist is saying that Ferrari will recruit… there is someone within this position who is at risk of losing their job.” He highlighted the need for a supportive environment for the team to succeed, lamenting the current pressures they face.
As Ferrari gears up for the race, Charles Leclerc will start from second on the grid, with Lewis Hamilton in fourth, showcasing a solid qualifying performance despite the ongoing challenges within the team.
Ferrari officially remarked, “Fred will not be at the track today… Jerome d’Ambrosio will stand in for him.” Further comments regarding Vasseur’s absence have not been provided.
The team’s performance in Austria will be crucial as they seek to regain momentum in the championship race.
