Sergio Marchionne made a "typical rookie error" in predicting immediate wins in 2016 and the world championship title, according to former Ferrari driver Gerhard Berger.
So far, the Maranello team has failed to deliver on the bold promises made by its new president, causing some to wonder if that means team boss Maurizio Arrivabene’s place at the helm is now in doubt.
"It is not for me to criticise Mr Marchionne," Berger, who drove for Ferrari over two separate stints in the 80s and 90s, told the German newspaper Welt.
"But he has made a typical rookie error in formula one. He is one of those successful businesspeople who believe they can also set up a business plan for their company in F1.
"But you quickly realise how unpredictable formula one is, and how it works differently when you are making a roadmap," said the Austrian.
"As it does for Red Bull, my heart still beats for Ferrari so I hope that soon they are able to return to great success."