Recent reports from the Italian media hinted at Ferrari’s interest in bringing Albon onboard after Sainz’s current agreement expires next year-end.
Nonetheless, Ferrari’s team principal, Frederic Vasseur, has debunked any rumors of association with Albon, who in recent weeks has expressed his commitment to a long-term future with Williams.
Vasseur, familiar with Albon through his past stint in GP3 and Formula 2 for his ART squad, believes Albon is well-rooted in Williams. He dismissed rumors of Ferrari actively seeking a new driver.
Addressing the Albon speculation to F1 Flow.com’s Italian edition, Vasseur commented, “I’m unsure where this story originated. Albon and I have worked together before and maintain a friendly relationship.
“If someone were to ask me if Alex is performing well currently, my response would be affirmative. But that doesn’t indicate my intent to hire him.
“I believe Alex has a contract with Williams through 2024. The team has made substantial investments, so no issues are apparent.”
Upon joining Maranello, Vasseur articulated his desire to comprehend the team and its workings before diving into driver contract concerns, given Sainz and Charles Leclerc’s contracts extend until the end of 2024.
“I conveyed to the team and the drivers at the season’s start, that it’s critical for me to familiarize myself with the team. That would take several months,” he conveyed.
“They still hold a one-year contract, so there’s no immediate necessity for discussion. We’ll undoubtedly address it in future, but it’s not a primary concern presently.
“The main objective is to concentrate on the team, particularly this season. I don’t want potential distractions.”
Frederic Vasseur, Team Principal and General Manager, Scuderia Ferrari
Photo by: Ferrari
Sainz and Leclerc seem to be in good synergy both on and off the track, despite their differing F1 approaches.
Vasseur acknowledges Leclerc’s ability to pull off exceptional performances, but at times, his aggressive driving leads to mistakes.
“Leclerc has the potential for remarkable achievements,” said Vasseur. “Sometimes, his maneuvers are completely unexpected.
“Charles is a driver who’s always eyeing victory. Our car might be trailing the Red Bull, yet he’s contemplating winning.
“In some instances, he’s seen pushing his limits, driving aggressively, and risking errors.
“My responsibility is to guide him appropriately. When we have a car that can secure second place, we should be proud and aim for it. It’s crucial to be observant of the events ahead.”
Discussing Sainz’s performances, Vasseur added, “Carlos is consistently steady. He manages his own pace better than Charles.
“He avoids overdriving and doesn’t experience the dramatic highs like Charles when he snags pole positions.
“He often comes close to Charles. In Miami, he was on pole up until the last corner. He avoids major errors and is always present.”
Also read:
Ferrari: Enhancing Driver Confidence Crucial for F1 Advancement
Williams F1: Albon’s Serenity and Confidence “Influencing the Entire Garage”
Vettel “Has Some Ideas” for his F1 Future
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ferrari Albon Rumors
Has Ferrari expressed interest in bringing Alex Albon onboard?
No, Ferrari’s team principal, Frederic Vasseur, has dismissed rumors of any movement with Alex Albon. Albon himself has also emphasized his commitment to a long-term future with Williams.
What is Frederic Vasseur’s approach towards the team’s driver contracts?
Frederic Vasseur has stated that he wants to better understand the team and its operations before delving into driver contract discussions. Both Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc have contracts extending until the end of 2024.
What are Vasseur’s views on Charles Leclerc’s performance?
Vasseur acknowledges Leclerc’s ability to deliver some outstanding performances. However, he also points out that Leclerc sometimes exposes himself to mistakes through over-aggressive driving.
How does Vasseur rate Carlos Sainz’s performance?
Vasseur appreciates Sainz’s consistency, and his ability to manage his own pace, which he perceives as superior to Leclerc’s. He notes Sainz’s knack for avoiding major errors and his constant presence in the competition.
What are the future plans of Ferrari regarding driver contracts?
Ferrari plans to discuss driver contracts in the future but it is not a primary concern at the moment. Vasseur has stressed that the team’s main focus is currently on their performance this season.
More about Ferrari Albon Rumors
- Ferrari’s Official Website
- F1 Flow
- Profile of Alex Albon
- Profile of Carlos Sainz
- Profile of Charles Leclerc
- Scuderia Ferrari in F1
6 comments
Carlos is consistent, no doubt. But, he doesn’t have the big moments like Charles… maybe that’s a good thing?
Vasseur is a smart man, focusing on the team and not stirring up contract rumors. That’s the way to go.
this is just the media making a fuss as always. Albon and Ferrari, ha, I’d like to see that! but it’s not gonna happen, folks.
Contract talk so soon?? Their contracts run till the end of 2024! Lets focus on the race now, people.
Huh, so no Albon to Ferrari? Not a shocker… Albon’s pretty settled in Williams anyways. He’s got good things goin there.
I’ve always said it, Leclerc needs to take it easy sometimes, way to agressive and gets him into trouble. Winning isn’t everything!