Fred Vasseur’s ‘frustrating’ 2025 decisions prove why George Russell must not join Ferrari in 2027

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The Formula 1 driver market and rumour mill has sparked some interesting potential transfers this season, with it now linking George Russell to Ferrari.

Italian media recently reported that the Maranello outfit are plotting a shock move for the Mercedes star. This is despite the fact that he penned a new deal with the Silver Arrows only a few weeks ago.

Russell’s stock has never been higher in F1 as he is currently enjoying his best season, sitting fourth in the standings with two wins and eight podiums. It is therefore not surprising to see Ferrari interested in the Brit, and a move may be more possible than some think.

Mercedes only confirmed Russell for 2026, with it widely believed that he has an exit clause in his deal as the team remain interested in Max Verstappen. Meanwhile, in Maranello, Lewis Hamilton is not set to receive a new contract, which could see him leave at the end of next year.

A seat could be open for Russell to join the sport’s most famous and successful team in 2027. Joining Ferrari brings a lot of red flags, but not the typical flags of the Prancing Horse one would see from the Tifosi at race weekends – 2025 has proven he should stay well away from the team.

Fred Vasseur’s ‘frustrating’ decisions with 2025 development prove why George Russell must not join Ferrari

This season has been bitterly disappointing for Ferrari, as they remain winless in 2025 with four races to go. So much was expected from the team with Hamilton on board with Charles Leclerc, but they have got their operation horribly wrong.

The pair struggled to adapt to the SF-25’s small operating window, with ride height issues still plaguing them 20 races into the season. Leclerc and Hamilton wanted aerodynamic upgrades, but team principal Fred Vasseur was adamant that a new rear suspension would solve their problems.

It did not, leaving Ferrari in a ‘frustrating’ situation and a psychologically damaged team as they focus their attention on 2026. These poor decisions, as well as ‘strained’ relationship between departments at Ferrari heading into next season, are not something Russell should be attracted to.

In many ways, it is the exact opposite of what he has at Mercedes. The 27-year-old is the number one driver and is clearly flourishing as the team leader, given his form.

If he were to replace Hamilton, it is incredibly unlikely that he would dethrone Leclerc as team leader, given how long he has been with Ferrari and how highly they regard his talent. It would seem foolish to become a No.2 when he is already enjoying being a lead driver for a top team.

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George Russell could be a world champion with Mercedes in 2026

The way 2025 has gone should stand as a huge warning for Russell when assessing Ferrari’s interest. But, of course, heading into 2026, things could easily change for the better in Maranello.

The team have already shifted focus to the 2026 F1 regulations, which could see the team move up the pecking order and be able to fight for the title. The reality is that no one truly knows where the teams are, but rumours are currently favouring Russell’s current outfit.

Mercedes are tipped to have the fastest engine in 2026, with the Silver Arrows having a great track record with regulation changes. If the rumours are true, it would not make sense for Russell to abandon what could be the best car on the grid.

Damon Hill wonders if Russell could be champion in 2026, given the rumoured strength of Mercedes’ power unit. With the form he is currently showing in 2025, it would be hard to count him out of the title hunt if he keeps his seat in Brackley.