Frédéric VasseurCoach·Frédéric Vasseur, the esteemed Team Principal of Scuderia FerrariTeam·Ferrari, will not be present for today's crucial qualifying session at the Monaco Grand PrixCompetition·Monaco Grand Prix. The team announced that Vasseur is under medical observation in a local facility following recent examinations, though no further details regarding his condition will be disclosed. FerrariTeam·Ferrari extended wishes for a swift recovery, expressing anticipation for his prompt return to the track.
In Vasseur's absence, Deputy Team Principal Jérôme d'AmbrosioCoach·Jérôme d'Ambrosio is expected to assume his responsibilities for the remainder of the weekend. The unexpected development comes as FerrariTeam·Ferrari has demonstrated formidable pace throughout the practice sessions in Monaco.
On Thursday, FerrariTeam·Ferrari's drivers, Charles LeclercPlayer·Charles Leclerc and Lewis HamiltonPlayer·Lewis Hamilton, topped both free practice sessions, signaling a strong competitive showing for the SF-26 on the demanding street circuit. Leclerc led the first session ahead of Hamilton, with the two drivers reversing positions in the subsequent practice hour. This performance positions FerrariTeam·Ferrari as a significant contender for pole position and a potential race victory, with some rivals identifying them as favorites for the event.
FerrariTeam·Ferrari's strong form in Monaco is particularly notable given the broader context of the 2026 Formula 1 season. MercedesTeam·Mercedes has enjoyed a perfect start, securing victories in all five preceding Grand Prix races. FerrariTeam·Ferrari currently trails MercedesTeam·Mercedes by 72 points in the Constructors' Championship standings. The reigning world champion, Lando NorrisPlayer·Lando Norris, secured his first title in Abu Dhabi during the 2025 season.
Prior to his medical issue, Frédéric VasseurCoach·Frédéric Vasseur had offered insights into the unique challenges of the Monaco circuit. He emphasized the extensive progression required from Friday's practice through to qualifying and the race, stating that anticipating the evolution of the track and grip levels is paramount. Vasseur also previously voiced concerns in May 2026 regarding changes to the starting procedure, describing them as "unfair" to FerrariTeam·Ferrari, as they eliminated a significant advantage the team had previously held.
Despite the absence of their team principal, FerrariTeam·Ferrari's performance on track suggests that the team remains focused and competitive. The upcoming qualifying session will be a critical indicator of their potential to challenge MercedesTeam·Mercedes' dominance and secure a strong grid position for Sunday's race.
Charles Leclerc drives his Ferrari SF-26 past the Hotel de Paris during free practice at the Monaco Grand Prix. Eibner/IMAGO
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