Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur recently disclosed that talks with Formula 1 design icon Adrian Newey faltered due to differing visions on his potential role at the Scuderia. The anticipated partnership between Ferrari and Newey won’t come to fruition, as Aston Martin is set to announce this week that it has secured Newey’s services with a lucrative multi-year deal starting in 2025, following his departure from Red Bull.
Initially, Ferrari was considered the leading candidate to attract Newey’s expertise when it was revealed that he would be leaving his long-time position at Red Bull. Despite multiple attempts to bring Newey on board, Ferrari’s reluctance to engage in a bidding war—particularly in light of Lewis Hamilton’s upcoming arrival—played a significant role in the breakdown of negotiations.
“Perhaps one day we might align on our perspectives. However, it’s important to remember that a single individual doesn’t determine a team’s success; the collective strength of the team always prevails,” Vasseur remarked.
As Newey prepares for his new role at Aston Martin, he will join a distinguished technical team that includes former Ferrari Chassis Technical Director Enrico Cardile, who will also start with the team in 2025. Vasseur noted, “I had a great working relationship with Cardile and personally, I will miss him.”
In recent staffing updates, Ferrari announced that Loic Serra, transitioning from Mercedes, will join the team next month as Technical Director. Vasseur praised Serra’s extensive experience, saying, “His strength lies in his extensive time at the highest levels of the sport.”
Additionally, Jerome d’Ambrosio will be leaving Mercedes to take on the role of Deputy Team Principal and head of Ferrari’s Driver Academy. Vasseur highlighted the importance of d’Ambrosio’s diverse experience, including his past roles as a driver, team principal, and CEO.
Despite the setback with Newey, Vasseur remains focused on strengthening Ferrari’s team and operations.
