Seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton is entering the Azerbaijan Grand Prix with a hopeful outlook, aiming to secure a podium finish for Ferrari in Baku. Having faced challenges with the SF25 this season, Hamilton sees the streets of Baku as an opportunity to turn his recent struggles around and deliver a strong result.
Lewis Hamilton’s start to the 2025 campaign with Ferrari has been challenging, with difficulties adapting to the SF25 evident in his performances. Prior to the summer break, Hamilton’s struggles were marked by erratic moments such as spinning during the sprint qualifying event at the Belgian Grand Prix and failing to score points in Hungary. Though his form improved slightly at Zaandvoort after the break, a crash due to an unforced error ended his race prematurely.
Hamilton’s weekend at the Italian Grand Prix delivered some positives as he qualified fifth, despite being penalized to start from tenth due to an earlier infraction in the Dutch GP. He ultimately finished in sixth place. Speaking at the Azerbaijan GP, Hamilton highlighted the difference he feels in handling the SF25 on the Baku circuit and acknowledged the enthusiastic support he received from the Tifosi at Monza.
“This weekend, a much different car than I’ve ever driven here before, so I’m excited to see how that feels and how I can, and what I can get from it.”
— Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Driver
When asked about the SF25’s mechanical grip compared to previous cars, Hamilton explained that the car offers more grip and a softer balance than others he has driven.
“Yeah, it’s a lot different. It’s got a lot more mechanical grip, I think. It’s got more mechanical grip, it’s a lot softer than the cars I’ve driven in.”
— Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Driver
Hamilton’s improved rhythm since the summer break has sparked conversations about his potential to clinch a podium or even victory in upcoming races. He tempered expectations regarding a win but expressed his ambition to reach the podium for the team.
“A win is a bit far fetched considering I’ve been 6th, 7th and 8th for most of the season. I would love to get a podium for the team at some stage.”
— Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Driver
“I feel optimistic coming into the weekend, I feel like I’ve found a couple of things and now I need to work on extracting them. So I really hope this weekend can be the start of that,”
— Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Driver
Last year, Charles Leclerc finished second in the Azerbaijan GP, providing optimism within the team for another strong performance in Baku this season.
Assessing Ferrari’s Prospects for Victory in Azerbaijan
The SF25 is recognized for its strength on circuits that demand strong mechanical grip, such as those with numerous slow corners, including Azerbaijan and Singapore. Given the nature of these tracks, Hamilton was asked whether these venues might offer Ferrari a chance to challenge for a win. He responded realistically about the competition, particularly from McLaren and Red Bull.
“I don’t think there’s any track that we’ll be able to beat the McLarens or maybe the Red Bull. They’re just ahead. They’re ahead in Monaco, they’re ahead in every track.”
— Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Driver
Ferrari has made technical adjustments for Baku, bringing the Spa specification rear wing featuring a trimmed DRS flap, aiming to maximize straight-line speed, a critical advantage on the long main straight of the Azerbaijan circuit.
Context on Hamilton’s Journey with Ferrari and Upcoming Outlook
Since joining Ferrari ahead of the current season, Hamilton has encountered various obstacles adapting to the SF25’s characteristics. The car demands a different driving style, which he acknowledges, but his increased mechanical grip has potential advantages on specific circuits. Baku, with its blend of tight corners and long straights, tests different aspects of a car’s setup, and Hamilton’s familiarity with street circuits adds to his confidence.
The support from fans, particularly the passionate Tifosi, has been a motivating factor for Hamilton. His experience of racing at Monza demonstrated strong backing, which he hopes to carry into Azerbaijan as he seeks to improve results for himself and the Scuderia.
Looking ahead, the combination of ongoing vehicle development and improving driver adaptation suggests that Ferrari’s campaign could gain momentum in the latter part of the season. However, with competitors like Red Bull and McLaren maintaining supremacy on several tracks, Ferrari faces an uphill battle to regain the top step of the podium. Hamilton’s expressed optimism and detailed focus on extracting the car’s potential signal his determination to contribute to this effort as the season continues.
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