F1 News: Former Ferrari Chairman Expresses Disappointment In Teams 2023 Performance

Former Ferrari chairman Luca di Montezemelo has hit out at the team for "cheering" for a third-place finish in Belgium.

Former Ferrari chairman Luca di Montezemelo has hit out at the Maranello-based squad for reacting positively to a third-place finish at the recent Belgian Grand Prix. 

The team has struggled to be as competitive as they were in 2022 and is currently running in fourth position in the constructors' standings with 191 points. The team has only celebrated three podium finishes so far this season with Charles Leclerc securing two third-place finishes in Belgium and Azerbaijan and a second-place finish in Austria. 

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During a recent interview with Quotidiano Sportivo, di Montezemelo expressed his disappointment in the team for "cheering for third place". He commented:

“Do you know what I find unfortunate? That they are now cheering for third place, like at Spa.

“That’s not the way Ferrari is, and the Old Man [Enzo Ferrari] would never have accepted that, never.

“Ferrari taught me a lot. As an example, he taught me never to settle."

Di Montezemelo went on to discuss how Enzo Ferrari managed the team differently. He continued:

“After a win, he was always thinking about the next race. At the same time, it was hard work. Enzo hated holidays. In August, he kept me in the office, he was not a supporter of those who went on holiday in August.

“He made me understand that Ferrari is an emotion that holds human and social value in its industry, it is a symbol of research and innovation. As president, between 1991 and 2014, I tried to be faithful to his lesson.”

Formula One is currently in the summer break which will be ending with the Dutch Grand Prix next weekend on August 25 - 27.