This is what poor leadership looks like

You’re the chairman of one of the world’s most renowned businesses with a legacy of success going back decades, but the business has underperformed for nearly twenty years. 

When your star performers say a few honest words about your latest product, what do you do? A) Take responsibility, listen to what they’ve got to say and make positive changes, or B) Tell them to shut up?

Ferrari’s chairman John Elkann decided plan B was the best option and in doing so has likely lost the respect of his two stars, and probably the entire team that supports them. This isn’t going to improve matters at the Scuderia. They might get away with it, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they continue to be trounced by Mercedes, McLaren and Max Verstappen[1] in 2026 and beyond. 

Never blame the team, even if it’s the team. Accept responsibility, roll up your sleeves and work until you’ve figured out the problem, together. That’s the kind of leadership that builds a culture of trust, accountability and, ultimately, performance. 

[1] Max, not Red Bull, since their second driver is forever cursed