Having stepped into the daunting role at Ferrari, Frédéric Vasseur (55) recounts his initial challenges. The car's performance in the launch fell short of expectations, leaving him with loads of data to process and results to improve. In Jeddah, hopes lingered but Ferrari's performance only worsened, leading to a challenging Monday. Yet, Vasseur remained calm, addressing issues methodically.
Truth be told, the car's problems were inherited from predecessors. Still, he's optimistic about progress in pit stops and strategy. A sense of calm pervades the pit wall, a testament to his approach. Time, however, is essential in car development, a fact not lost on Vasseur.
His management style reassures. Errors are inevitable, he says, but honesty and mutual understanding are critical. The team's mood is positive. Pressure from the Italian fans, the Tifosi, is intense but positive. "Their enthusiasm never wanes, not even in tough times," Vasseur remarks.
Monza, Ferrari's home track, amplifies this positive energy. The highlight of the season, Vasseur reveals, wasn't the Singapore victory, but Monza. The combination of the track and the adoring Tifosi fan base made it a memorable experience for him.
Michael Schumacher's golden era at Ferrari is a cherished memory for Vasseur. While he acknowledges the past's allure, he emphasizes focus on the future. Cyclical nature of motorsport implies opportunities for comebacks, even for Ferrari.
Competition with Mercedes, and their team boss, Toto Wolff, is intense but Vasseur manages to separate their relationship on and off the track. Weekly dinners with Wolff and his family provide a welcome distraction from the demanding sport.
Settling in Italy, Vasseur finds comfort in his one son Paul and wife's company. After a hotel stint, living together is a relief. He admits his Italian is improving, though he prefers English for precise communication.
Monza's Monza Grand Prix, for Ferrari, is more than just a race. Its historical significance, emotional connection, and Tifosi's support make it a special event. The thrill of competing on a challenging circuit against world-class drivers adds to Ferrari's allure in this prestigious event.
