Fred Vasseur gets the PR 'kiss of death' as Ferrari insists that it stands behind its man.

Whenever, amidst mounting media speculation, there is a question mark over the future of a football club manager, or indeed a politician, the club, or his political party, issues a statement insisting that he has its full support.

Days, maybe weeks, later, the speculation proves to be true and said person is fired.

Today, amidst mounting media speculation over the future of its team boss, Ferrari has given Fred Vasseur its full support.

"We have confidence, full confidence in Fred Vasseur and in his team, and we continue to do so," said the Maranello outfit's chief communications officer, Maria Conti in a virtual press conference.

"At this time it's really important that the team remains united and cohesive," she added, "and we are focused with all the energy on the work ahead.

"Ferrari has always attracted extraordinary interest," she admitted, in a masterpiece of understatement, "and it's only natural that many professionals aspire to be part of it.

"It is a reflection of the strength of what Ferrari really represents.

"So, this is why we really want to avoid, and we do not intend to fuel speculation or comment on assumptions coming from outside the company. And it's not just related to the story in the times of Mr. Horner, but in general, the speculation about Fred."

So, that's Fred gone in 5... 4... 3... 2...