Jean Todt, the former FIA president and Ferrari team boss during the Michael Schumacher era, has issued a cautionary note to Red Bull, hinting at a possible slump similar to Ferrari’s post-dominance years. In an interview with La Stampa, Todt drew parallels between his time at Ferrari and the current situation at Red Bull. “I see similarities between both eras,” he said. “Red Bull has created a winning team with a driver who is extraordinary, very professional, intelligent and fantastic,” Todt remarked, clearly impressed by Max Verstappen’s prowess.
However, Todt pointed out the inherent risks of maintaining such high levels of success, referencing Ferrari’s sudden decline in competitiveness after a period of dominance. “Do you remember 2005?” he queried. “The same team, the same drivers after a season full of victories and although we still had Michael, we were no longer competitive. The following year we were fast again, but ultimately we lost the title due to reliability problems,” Todt recalled, drawing a potential parallel to Red Bull’s current situation.
Currently distanced from a direct role in F1, Todt revealed his personal support on the grid leans towards Charles Leclerc. “Today I support (Charles) Leclerc,” he shared with a smile. This preference is not only due to Leclerc’s driving skills but also a familial connection. “My son has been following him since he started karting and he is a great driver,” Todt mentioned, referring to Nicholas, who continues to manage Leclerc. He expressed his belief in Leclerc’s potential, affirming, “He (Leclerc) deserves the chance to win a world championship in the future.”
