Intel's Former CEO Pat Gelsinger Says He 'Fasts Every Thursday'. Here's Why

Gelsinger’s departure comes after Intel’s board of directors decided to replace him, citing declining confidence in his leadership amid a turbulent year.

Pat Gelsinger, Intel's recently ousted CEO, has issued a heartfelt appeal, urging people to pray and fast in solidarity with the company’s 100,000 employees during a challenging period. Gelsinger's message highlights his enduring connection to Intel and his hopes for its workforce and future.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Gelsinger shared, “Every Thursday, I dedicate a day to prayer and fasting. This week, I invite you to join me in doing so for Intel’s 100K employees as they navigate these tough times.” He emphasised the company’s critical role in shaping the tech industry and supporting the U.S. economy.

Why Did Gelsinger Leave Intel?

Gelsinger’s departure comes after Intel’s board of directors decided to replace him, citing declining confidence in his leadership amid a turbulent year. The company’s stock has dropped by 58 per cent year-to-date, contrasting sharply with gains in the broader market and competitors like Nvidia.

Reflecting on his time at Intel, Gelsinger called his tenure “the honour of a lifetime,” acknowledging the bittersweet nature of his exit after decades with the company.

Even after stepping down, Gelsinger has continued to defend Intel’s technological advancements, recently addressing scepticism around its 18A semiconductor process. He dismissed concerns about yield rates, stating they don't fully capture the technology's progress.

Gelsinger’s appeal was accompanied by a verse from Proverbs: “Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.” 

Troubled Waters For Intel

Intel has been navigating significant challenges, including a $0.46 per share loss in its latest quarterly report and a 6.2 per cent year-over-year revenue decline to $13.28 billion. The company has also implemented drastic measures, such as a 15 per cent workforce reduction and $10 billion in spending cuts.

For now, David Zinsner and Michelle Johnston Holthaus are acting as co-CEOs while Intel searches for a permanent successor. The company is considering both internal and external candidates, including Marvell Technology’s Matt Murphy and former board member Lip-Bu Tan.