The rivals are progressing, however Ferrari is just not. That appears to be one of the simplest ways to summarize what has been seen in latest weeks, as Mercedes and Purple Bull seem to have made important steps ahead in efficiency, closing in on McLaren, which has remained constant at its regular degree. Ferrari, however, appears to have misplaced route and change into more and more unable to react to the recurring issues which have affected the SF-25 because the begin of the season. Regardless of the few updates launched, the automotive has by no means managed to convey an actual turning level to its marketing campaign. Because of this, the Maranello-based crew now seems to be the fourth power on the grid. This development may very possible condemn the Scuderia to ending the season in third place within the Constructors’ Championship, except there’s a sharp turnaround within the remaining six races—a problem that each drivers appear to strategy in another way, judging from their latest feedback.
Two completely different views from Hamilton and Leclerc
Throughout Thursday’s press convention in Austin, Lewis Hamilton described the upcoming races as preparation for 2026, admitting that his focus is now on the long run. “I’m enthusiastic about the following six races as studying and process-improvement assessments,” Lewis Hamilton stated. “In latest occasions, we’ve missed just a few alternatives, and we’ll maintain engaged on that. The purpose is to take the positives and alter what doesn’t work. It’s about constructing relationships and communication. Everybody within the manufacturing facility deserves a very good end result. The target is to maximise what’s attainable and keep targeted.”
Charles Leclerc, nonetheless, was extra direct and fewer philosophical in his outlook. “As Ferrari, we’re conscious that it’s not attainable—and never acceptable—to go a full 12 months with out successful,” he said. “We’re doing all the things we will. The reality is that because the begin of the season, we haven’t been at McLaren’s degree, and no longer even Mercedes or Purple Bull’s. Nobody is happy. I’ve heard individuals say there’s no response from the crew, however after I see what’s occurring inside, I can guarantee you there are robust reactions and an actual want to return to successful methods.”
Gearbox issues hit Charles Leclerc throughout FP1
Nevertheless, that turnaround doesn’t appear to have arrived but. Through the first free follow session at the US Grand Prix, the Ferrari SF-25 didn’t impress when it comes to outright tempo and was hit by a number of points—Lewis Hamilton skilled issues with the accelerator pedal, whereas Charles Leclerc was pressured to finish his session early because of gearbox bother on his automotive, reporting the issue instantly over crew radio.
Leclerc: “What occurred? Can I shift or not? Seventh gear gained’t interact. I’ve bought an issue.”
Bozzi: “Field, Charles.”
Leclerc: “There’s a scent of oil.”
The difficulty marked one other irritating second for Charles Leclerc and Ferrari, because the crew continues to face technical challenges in a season the place reliability and consistency stay their fundamental weaknesses.
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