Ferrari are heading into the 2026 Formula 1 season under intense pressure, with expectations that it could define the team’s immediate and long-term future. Team principal Frederic Vasseur is tasked with delivering a car capable of winning championships, while also managing critical driver decisions that could shape Ferrari’s direction for years to come.
Central to those choices is Lewis Hamilton, whose arrival was meant to accelerate Ferrari’s return to the top. However, with new regulations and rising competition, Vasseur must weigh whether committing fully to Hamilton remains the right move, especially if early results in 2026 fail to match the team’s lofty ambitions.
At the same time, Charles Leclerc’s position adds another layer of complexity. As Ferrari’s long-term investment and homegrown star, Leclerc’s future depends on whether the team can finally provide him with a consistently title-winning car. Any perception that Ferrari is prioritising short-term gains over his career path could prove costly.
Beyond the two lead drivers, Ferrari also face wider contract dilemmas that influence their stability. Decisions around driver hierarchy, contract lengths, and succession planning risk affecting morale and could even open the door for rivals to lure away key talent if uncertainty drags on.
Ultimately, Vasseur’s challenge is to balance experience with longevity. Getting the 2026 car right is only part of the equation, as Ferrari must also decide how long Hamilton fits into their plans while ensuring Leclerc remains committed to the Scuderia’s vision of returning to world championship glory.
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