Andrea Stella reveals how Enzo Ferrari would’ve felt to see him ditch the Scuderia for McLaren

Andrea Stella spoke about how Enzo Ferrari would have reacted to his move from Scuderia Ferrari to McLaren.


Andrea Stella reveals how Enzo Ferrari would’ve felt to see him ditch the Scuderia for McLaren

Andrea Stella Enzo Ferrari (images via IMAGO)

Andrea Stella is a seasoned figure in McLaren’s team and has led them to the top of the sport in less than two years. He earlier made a significant mark during his 15 years at Ferrari, where he held various engineering roles and contributed to the team’s success.

Stella started as a race engineer for Kimi Raikkonen and advanced to key positions within the organization. However, In 2021, the Italian transitioned to McLaren as team principal, succeeding Andreas Seidl.

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In a recent Vodcast, Andrea Stella spoke about how Enzo Ferrari would have reacted to his move to McLaren, which marked a significant step in his career. He made the move as he sought a leadership role in a new environment.

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In his 15 years at Ferrari, Stella gained invaluable experience and insight. The Italian aimed to leverage that knowledge to enhance McLaren’s performance. While he likely felt excitement about this new challenge, he also reflected on his time at Ferrari.

Stella suggested that Enzo Ferrari might have felt proud of him. He said that the Ferrari founder would appreciated how much he learned during those years in Maranello.

After 15 years at Ferrari I think his first reaction would probably be disappointed. He would say ‘what is he doing there?’ On the other hand I think and hope that secondly he would be a little proud that someone who grew up at Ferrari learned what I learned and was then able to contribute to the growth of another team.

Andrea Stella said on the Pirelli Vodcast

Stella views Ferrari as an exceptional school that equips employees with valuable skills and experiences in racing and teamwork. While Enzo Ferrari would be proud of Stella’s accomplishments, there might also be sadness or disappointment that someone who spent so many years at Ferrari is now contributing to a rival team.

I think he would be proud that Ferrari is such a great school that he can then go elsewhere and make a contribution. I think he would be torn between those two emotions.

Andrea Stella added

Andrea Stella asserts that he would not have considered competing for titles just 12 months ago

McLaren is experiencing a remarkable resurgence in F1, leading the Constructors’ Championship for the first time since 1998. Under Andrea Stella’s guidance, they’ve become the fastest team on the grid.

Andrea Stella
Andrea Stella (via IMAGO)

At the start of the season, a typical year was expected, but everything changed when Lando Norris won the Miami GP. Both Norris and Oscar Piastri are performing at a high level. Stella noted that just a year ago, he wouldn’t have imagined fighting for titles.

I would say it’s almost unexpected. Twelve months ago I would never have thought I would be talking about fighting for titles . But this is the result of the work of a great team.

Andrea Stella expressed

With just six races left, McLaren is on the brink of claiming the 2024 Constructors’ Championship. However, Red Bull is only 41 points behind, so maintaining the lead will be crucial. The month-long break before the race in Austin gives teams a chance to develop their cars, which could create uncertainty in the final races.