Ferrari made a significant statement with Charles Leclerc’s podium finish at the Belgian Grand Prix in Spa, showcasing the team’s ongoing development. The Italian outfit introduced a new rear suspension system designed to improve ride height issues, marking a key upgrade in their pursuit of better race performance. Leclerc qualified fourth in the sprint race and maintained that position, before earning a podium spot in the main event, demonstrating his skill in maximizing the car’s potential despite the team being the third fastest overall during the weekend.
Team Leadership Confident About Continued Growth Heading into Hungary
Ferrari’s technical director, Fred Vasseur, expressed optimism about extracting further gains from the new rear suspension as the team prepares for a very different challenge at the Hungarian Grand Prix. Vasseur emphasized that the upcoming race, characterized by tight, medium- and low-speed corners, would provide a fresh test of the car’s updated capabilities. Speaking to Motorsport, he said,
“In recent races, we’ve made progress in terms of competitiveness, and in Belgium, thanks to the great work done in Maranello, we introduced an update package that further improved our performance. Before the mandatory summer break, we have one final race, the Hungarian Grand Prix, where we want to continue growing.”
He continued,
“It will be interesting to see how the updated SF-25 performs on a completely different track, twisty and featuring many medium- and low-speed corners. Charles and Lewis are both in good shape, and the team is working well too. We want to arrive at the break with another solid result.”
These remarks underline Ferrari’s clear ambition to build momentum and improve before the summer hiatus, with Leclerc and teammate Lewis gaining confidence and form.
Strategic Stability Secured with Fred Vasseur’s Contract Renewal
Alongside its technical progress, Ferrari announced that Fred Vasseur’s contract has been extended, ensuring he will continue to lead the team’s racing and development efforts. Vasseur, the Frenchman who joined Ferrari in 2023, had faced speculation about potential changes in the senior management structure, but the decision to retain him signals a consolidated strategy. Ferrari’s CEO, Benedetto Vigna, praised Vasseur’s leadership and the team’s direction with him at the helm, stating,
“We want to recognise what has been built and commit to what still needs to be achieved. It reflects our trust in Fred’s leadership – a trust rooted in shared ambition, mutual expectations and clear responsibility.”
He added,
“We move forward with determination and focus, united in our pursuit of the level of performance Ferrari has to aim for.”
This contract renewal offers Vasseur the necessary time and authority to shape Ferrari’s future trajectory, aiming to enhance consistency and challenge rivals across varied race conditions.
Looking Ahead: Ferrari’s Drive to Sustain Momentum in Budapest
Charles Leclerc’s podium at Spa confirmed Ferrari’s promising progress, driven by technical innovation and strong team leadership. As the season approaches the Hungarian Grand Prix, Ferrari is eager to test its new developments on a track with different demands. The team’s commitment to continuous improvement and stability in management sets a positive tone for the rest of the season, with hopes of securing more top results before the summer break.
