Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur has stated that the team needs to figure out how to fully utilize the potential of their SF-25 car. This comes after a disappointing beginning to the Formula 1 season, as they prepare for the Japanese Grand Prix.
The Ferrari team experienced a setback at the Chinese Grand Prix with a double disqualification, which placed them fifth in the Constructors` Championship standings. They are currently 61 points behind the leading team, McLaren. Ferrari is looking to improve their performance at the upcoming race in Suzuka.
Despite showing glimpses of promise with the SF-25, such as Lewis Hamilton`s sprint race victory in Shanghai, the car has not consistently challenged top competitors. Neither Hamilton nor Charles Leclerc has yet finished in the top four in a main Grand Prix race this season.
Vasseur emphasized the team`s focus on enabling their drivers, Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, to consistently extract the best performance from the SF-25. He noted that they have only managed to achieve this level of performance during practice sessions and the sprint race in China.
He added that Formula 1 is about paying attention to every detail, from factory preparations to on-track execution and adapting to changing conditions during races. Once they achieve consistent performance in these areas, they will have a clearer understanding of their competitive position.
After the Chinese Grand Prix, where Ferrari lost the points from their initial fifth and sixth-place finishes, their total points for the season stand at just 17 as they approach Suzuka. This is their weakest start to a season since 2009.
Commentator Ted Kravitz highlighted Ferrari`s crucial weekend in Japan, noting the team`s need for a strong response after a disastrous weekend in China. He pointed out the low points standings for both Hamilton and Leclerc and emphasized the importance of Ferrari`s reaction in the upcoming race.
Regarding Hamilton`s start with Ferrari, Kravitz believes Hamilton is likely satisfied with the team`s direction, especially after the Sprint win in China. However, he stressed that Ferrari needs to regain its competitive edge.
