Ferrari stunned the Formula 1 community with an impressive qualifying performance at the 2025 Austrian Grand Prix, with Charles Leclerc securing second place and a teammate taking fourth on the starting grid. This marks Ferrari’s strongest qualifying showing of the season, signaling a significant leap forward in their competitiveness.
The notable improvement came after Ferrari introduced innovative floor upgrades designed to solve the SF-25’s longstanding challenge of generating adequate downforce, which had been hindered by the car’s ride height. These technical enhancements have proven revolutionary, transforming the team’s one-lap pace.
Drivers and Rivals React to Ferrari’s New Strength
Charles Leclerc expressed confidence following the qualifying session, praising the upgrades for the substantial impact they have made on the car’s performance. His optimism is reinforced by Ferrari’s typical race-day strength, suggesting that their qualifying success might translate into a strong showing on race day.
Mercedes driver George Russell admitted surprise at Ferrari’s resurgence, emphasizing that the team’s renewed pace had caught many off guard. Similarly, McLaren’s team principal Andrea Stella recognized Ferrari as a serious threat, attributing their progress to continuous development efforts and the introduction of a completely redesigned floor for the SF-25.
Strategic Factors to Watch for Sunday’s Race
Race day at the Red Bull Ring is expected to feature high temperatures, making tire management a key strategic element. Ferrari’s historical expertise in tire preservation, combined with their newfound qualifying speed, places them in an advantageous position for the race.
Looking ahead, Ferrari plans to present further upgrades to the SF-25 before the summer break, aiming to strengthen their advantage even more. With this upward momentum, the competition at the Austrian Grand Prix is intensifying, promising an exciting and unpredictable race for fans and teams alike.
“The noticeable difference the upgrades have made is very satisfying.” —Charles Leclerc, Ferrari Driver
“Ferrari’s performance in Austria has been a surprise.” —George Russell, Mercedes Driver
“The threat from Ferrari is due to relentless development efforts and the introduction of a completely new floor for the SF-25.” —Andrea Stella, McLaren Team Principal
