Italian media call on Elkann to sort out Ferrari feud

In an editorial for Corriere della Serra, penned by Daniele Sparisci and Giorgio Terruzzi, the pair shed light on the whole affair that could have a serious impact on the team's 2019 season.

They argue that the almost invisible Elkann needs to emerge from the shadows and sort matters out as soon as possible, the team needs leadership and direction while warning that total focus on the job at hand - the 2019 F1 campaign - is essential.

The current divisions within the operation simply foment uncertainty, and that's not how they will beat Mercedes next year.

Sparisci and Terruzzi wrote: "A deafening silence reigns. In particular, at Maranello, where the F1 winter break sees them more mute than normal. Unspoken words often end up feeding gossip and indiscretions, they make even more noise."

"The 2019 single-seater is practically ready, from the wind-tunnel it appears the first impressions are positive. There is also an impatient 20-year-old Charles Leclerc and a four-time world champion, Sebastian Vettel, one in search of identity and the other redemption."

"So why so much privacy after they said we need to open up more? Or perhaps they first have to get their house in order.

"The task is for President John Elkann. Lately, the Agnelli heir has increased the frequency of his visits to Maranello. This is the Ferrari family jewel and he must keep it shining.

"He inherited the team built by Sergio Marchionne but has not been involved in anything in recent months. His public appearances have been very rare, but now he has to step up and restore peace and take control of the team."

Ferrari, through Maurizio Arrivabene, have always denied splits and feuds within the team. He branded the speculation about the exit of technical director Mattia Binotto as fake news.

"But the engineer from Reggio [Binotto] requested a meeting to ascertain his future with the team because up and down the F1 paddock there are those keen on his talents and expertise, with Mercedes top of that list.

"It is also known he would like to stay to continue the unfinished mission: to bring the Formula 1 World Championship to Via Emilia. To do so, requires clarity, protection of roles and peace within the ranks.

"Remember [Binotto] did not appreciate the public criticism of the car by Vettel and Arrivabene, as if the defeat to Mercedes was only due to technical reasons. This hurt.

"Elkann can choose to confirm the tandem leadership of Arrivabene and Binotto, making all the necessary adjustments so the two work together with greater harmony for the forthcoming championship.

"The other options? Confirm the full support of Arrivabene and run the risk that Binotto will leave. Or dismiss the team principal to safeguard the technical department.

"But who would replace Arrivabene as team principal? Apparently not Binotto, who has never publicly manifested interest in the role. Whatever the case decisions need to be taken quickly."

https://www.grandprix247.com/2018/12/04/arrivabene-vs-binotto-decision-time-as-feud-intensifies/