A racing dynasty is crumbling. The departure of the Rosin family from Prema Racing, the team they built from the ground up, has sent shockwaves through the motorsport world. Founded in 1983 by Angelo Rosin and his wife Grazia Troncon, Prema Racing became a powerhouse in junior single-seater racing. Their son Rene and Angelina Ertsou took over the day-to-day operations, but now, the entire family is leaving.
It's hard to believe, isn't it? In any sport, family-run teams at this level face immense challenges. But the end of this chapter is still a sad moment.
The news reportedly stunned the mechanics and team personnel at Prema's factory near Vicenza. But here's where it gets controversial: what about the drivers and their backers who have invested millions to race for Rene and Angelina this year?
While contracts are with Prema Racing, everyone knows who Formula 1 teams and major sponsors truly trust when they write those massive checks.
It's no secret that there have been internal disagreements within the organization for some time. The Rosins are part-owners, but DC Racing Solutions, led by Deborah Mayer, holds the majority stake since 2021.
The team faced accusations of unpaid bills during its first IndyCar season last year. There were also reports of a legal dispute with Lamborghini over a data breach. Outside North America, things seemed normal, but friction was definitely present.
Undoubtedly, the Rosins have been flooded with calls from drivers and personnel they helped shape into racing stars. Imagine the calls! I'd be shocked if Charles Leclerc didn't call. The list of people who genuinely care about the Rosins is long and impressive.
This speaks volumes about how they ran the team. Drivers often spend only a season or two with a junior single-seater team. But, unlike other teams, they usually stay in touch with Rene and Angelina, who become lifelong advisors. They're always there for those who gave their best for Prema.
The questions keep piling up. What about those who've paid to race for the team in 2026? How will the Rosins' departure affect them? How will the staff be impacted? Will they all stay? Surprisingly, the staff didn't get much more information than what was in the press.
What's next for the Rosins? Will they immediately join another team, or will they start a new project? They'll be in high demand if they choose to work for other teams.
And what about the IndyCar team? The Rosins were less involved in that part of the operation. Without a major cash infusion and a hiring spree, it will be a huge struggle to even get on the grid in 2026.
We're all waiting for answers, especially with talented drivers like Callum Ilott and Robert Shwartzman under contract for the season.
Even if things continue as usual, this team will never be the same.
In December 2023, Prema celebrated its 40th anniversary with a glamorous party attended by Ollie Bearman, Esteban Ocon, Kimi Antonelli, and more.
Now, the people who started it all are gone.
What are your thoughts? Do you think this marks the end of an era for Prema Racing? Share your opinions in the comments below!
