P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Who is John Elkann? The Ferrari F1 chief that kicked the hornet’s nest
John Elkann, the American-Italian chairman of the Ferrari motorsport group, stirred controversy by suggesting F1 drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton should “talk less” and focus on racing. Elkann, although not directly involved in decision making, has influence over all Ferrari motorsport operations due to his position. He played a key role in negotiations that brought Hamilton to Ferrari, offering investments in Hamilton’s charitable organizations and business ventures.
Elkann, born in New York in 1976, held dual citizenship before renouncing his US citizenship in 2012. He is a member of the renowned Agnelli family, with significant roles in Fiat, Exor, and eventually Ferrari. Under his leadership, Ferrari has made a return to the World Endurance Championship, including a recent victory at the 8 Hours of Bahrain race.
While not yet achieving an F1 world championship title, Elkann continues to oversee Ferrari’s racing division and other global brand investments. Following his tenure as Ferrari CEO, Benedetto Vigna now handles the daily operations. Elkann’s recent comments on Hamilton and Leclerc’s performances suggest a need for greater focus amidst important upcoming races for Ferrari.
