The automotive world was shaken this weekend by the unexpected resignation of Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis—one of the largest automotive groups in the world.
An immediate decision that disrupts the group’s dynamics just as it was embarking on ambitious projects, particularly in motorsport. But could this decision, driven by behind-the-scenes disagreements, mark a turning point for Peugeot Sport and Stellantis’ involvement in the WEC?
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A sudden resignation and internal restructuring
Carlos Tavares, who was originally set to stay until 2026, has chosen to step down much earlier, with his departure described as “immediate” in an official statement. At the helm of Stellantis since its creation in 2021, he orchestrated significant turnarounds for brands like PSA and Opel, while positioning Stellantis as a major player in the global automotive industry. However, recent strategic disagreements with the board, chaired by John Elkann, led to this radical decision. While the appointment of a permanent successor is expected by mid-2025, Stellantis has established a temporary executive committee to ensure continuity. Although financial targets for 2024 remain in place, the impact of Tavares’ departure on key projects, such as its motorsport commitments, remains uncertain.
The future of Peugeot Sport’s Hypercar program in WEC
A motorsport enthusiast, Carlos Tavares was instrumental in Peugeot’s return to endurance racing with the ambitious Hypercar 9X8 project, launched in 2019. Unfortunately, the program has struggled to meet expectations on the track since its debut at the 6 Hours of Monza in 2022. Tavares’ departure raises a critical question: will Stellantis continue this costly investment in World Endurance Championship? With finances already under pressure due to declining sales and adjustments required for the electric transition, some fear that the group’s motorsport commitments could face cutbacks. The future of other initiatives, such as its Formula E programs with Maserati and DS, also seems uncertain. While Maserati has confirmed its participation in the Gen4 era set for 2026, DS remains silent, leaving doubts about the group’s strategic unity.
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Decisive choices ahead for Stellantis
The succession of Carlos Tavares presents both an opportunity and a monumental challenge for Stellantis. The next CEO will need to not only strengthen commercial performance but also make tough calls on expensive and complex motorsport projects. Peugeot Sport, the symbol of the group’s return to endurance racing and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, could become a collateral victim of these strategic realignments.
In the meantime, the interim team led by John Elkann must stay the course while reassuring shareholders, employees, and partners about the group’s long-term stability. But one thing is certain: without a strong figure like Carlos Tavares—a passionate advocate for motorsport—these projects’ futures seem more precarious than ever.
This article explores the sudden resignation of Carlos Tavares and its impact on Stellantis, particularly Peugeot Sport’s Hypercar project in the WEC. With internal disagreements and financial pressures mounting, the future of the group’s motorsport ambitions hangs in the balance, leaving fans and stakeholders with many unanswered questions.
Source: Stellantis group
Images: Peugeot Sport
