Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur was hospitalized ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix, leading to his absence from final practice and qualifying sessions on Saturday. The French executive was admitted for medical evaluation, but the Scuderia has not provided specific details regarding his condition.

Deputy team principal Jerome D’Ambrosio, who took charge of the team at the circuit during Vasseur’s absence, confirmed after qualifying that Vasseur is “okay” following the medical checks. However, D’Ambrosio declined to comment on whether Vasseur would return to the track for Sunday’s race.

Vasseur’s absence comes at a critical moment for Ferrari, as the team prepares to challenge for victory at one of the most prestigious events on the Formula 1 calendar. Pole position was secured by Kimi Antonelli, with Max Verstappen starting alongside in second, setting the stage for a competitive race.

Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion currently driving for Ferrari, expressed determination to disrupt the expected order despite the difficulties associated with overtaking on the narrow Monaco street circuit. Hamilton, starting behind pole-sitter Antonelli and Verstappen, acknowledged the race’s reputation for processional running but said he would seek to capitalize on any opportunities, including hoping for rain to increase unpredictability.

“It’s a shame that this race is normally a procession. I probably need rain, but nothing’s impossible,” Hamilton said. “I’ll try to get in there and hassle these two as much as I can and force them into not making certain corners.”

The team and drivers face a challenging day ahead, balancing the uncertainty surrounding their leader’s condition with the high stakes of the Monaco Grand Prix. Officials and fans will be watching closely to see if Vasseur returns to the paddock and how the Scuderia performs on race day.