Ferrari is going through one of its most difficult periods in recent years. The Italian team top management had high hopes for the 2025 project, built on an evolution of the car that allowed them to fight for wins and podiums in the latter part of 2024. However, the start of the current season marked by the headline arrival of Lewis Hamilton has been nothing short of a disaster.

The Scuderia has only had one moment of joy in the first eight races: a sprint race win in China. That victory now feels like a mirage. Since then, Hamilton has struggled, falling far behind his teammate Charles Leclerc, who has secured the team only three podium finishes so far. Meanwhile, McLaren has emerged as the frontrunner, holding an estimated four-tenths of a second advantage per lap. To make matters worse, the new technical regulations introduced in Barcelona meant to further limit front wing flex and potentially benefit Ferrari have failed to deliver the expected gains.

Vasseur on the Hot Seat

Amid this disappointing performance, speculation about the future of team principal Frédéric Vasseur is intensifying. Reports from Italy suggest that his position is at serious risk and that he’s been asked to fast-track the development of crucial car upgrades, which have yet to materialize.

What particularly alarming is the uncertainty surrounding Vasseur future, especially with the major regulatory overhaul set to take effect in 2026. The same report names possible replacements already being considered by Ferrari. Among them are Antonello Coletta, who currently leads Ferrari successful World Endurance Championship program, and even Red Bull team principal Christian Horner. “Both names are at the top of the list,” the Italian outlet claims.

Is Leclerc Eyeing Other Teams?

According to Il Corriere della Sera, Charles Leclerc could choose to leave Ferrari of his own accord, having “lost faith in the team” after years of unfulfilled promises and a lack of a championship-worthy car.

Although Leclerc is under contract with Ferrari until 2029, Il Corriere della Sera reports that his trust in the team no longer appears solid. The article mentions that Leclerc “suffers from cyclical crises” and surely has noticed that Oscar Piastri, in just one year with a competitive McLaren, has already won almost as much as he has in seven seasons in red.

While nothing is confirmed, the mere fact that Leclerc is reportedly open to exploring options elsewhere thanks to exit clauses in his contract seems tied to the opportunities that the 2026 regulations could bring. His fear is being stuck in a struggling Ferrari even in the sport’s new era.

In that context, Mercedes emerges as a potential destination. Many in the paddock believe the team’s engine could make them serious title contenders in 2026. Notably, Mercedes has yet to renew George Russell contract. However, should they decide to part ways with the Briton, team boss Toto Wolff long-standing preference has been Max Verstappen, who remains under contract with Red Bull until 2028.

Hamilton: Another Major Headache

As if the situation weren’t already tense enough, Il Corriere della Sera also highlights growing concerns surrounding Lewis Hamilton. The seven-time world champion has yet to adapt to the Ferrari car and is currently experiencing a deep slump in both performance and confidence. In Barcelona, observers noted how visibly dejected he appeared after another race where he couldn’t understand his lack of pace.