Crisis at Ferrari? Racing Director Mekies set to leave amid tensions between Vasseur and Vigna
Ferrari is reportedly facing a new crisis within its management team, as tensions are said to be escalating between two key figures. Racing Director Laurent Mekies is rumoured to be on the verge of leaving the team.
Ferrari's struggles continue as racing director Laurent Mekies is reportedly set to leave the team amidst tensions between Team Principal Frederic Vasseur and CEO Benedetto Vigna according to Corriere della Sera.
The team is also facing uncertainty regarding the futures of other technical staff, including Enrico Cardile, whose contract expires next year.
The team's poor start to the season in Bahrain has highlighted issues within the technical department, with the team's impressive simulator and wind tunnel data not translating onto the track.
This has been attributed to a technical void created during the transition from former team principal Mattia Binotto to Vasseur.
The Frenchman only took over the role in January, leaving little time to interact with key personnel before the car's design was finalised.
The team's management structure has also undergone significant changes, with Vigna cutting several heads in the industrial department in 2021.
This has resulted in a climate of uncertainty and fear, with several key staff members reportedly considering their options.
The recent departure of David Sanchez has left a void that needs filling, with the team looking to improve on their disappointing 2023 season and prepare for the 2024 campaign.
Vasseur is facing significant challenges in his role, with several key personnel set to become free agents in the near future.
The situation with Mekies is particularly concerning, with the racing director reportedly having reached an agreement to work under Stefano Domenicali in F1.
Vasseur has reportedly put a veto on the move, causing a deadlock.
There are also reported tensions between Vasseur and Vigna, with several incidents souring their working relationship.
Vasseur's proposal to bring in a new sponsor was reportedly blocked, limiting his ability to expand his influence within the team.
Despite the challenges facing the team, Vasseur's position remains strong. However, he must address the issues facing the team, including a car that is fragile and eats tyres.
The team must also deal with the potential loss of key technical staff, which could further exacerbate their issues.
There is a joke being passed around in English F1 circles: "Vasseur is beginning to understand why nobody wanted to take the Ferrari job."
The team must find a way to address their issues and get back on track if they hope to compete with the top teams in the sport.
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