Ferrari’s famed Tifosi fanbase is feeling a mix of frustration and unease ahead of the team’s first home race of the 2025 Formula 1 season, the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. Despite high hopes, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has faced difficulties adapting to the new Ferrari SF-25, leaving fans and experts concerned about the team’s direction. Ferrari entered the season under pressure, having been tipped as close title contenders following a strong end to 2024, but a series of setbacks and underwhelming performances have cast doubt on their progress.
The Italian squad was widely expected to challenge McLaren, especially after narrowly missing out on the constructors’ championship last year. However, the momentum from their promising 2024 finish failed to carry over, and the SF-25’s performance has left much to be desired. Hamilton, making his debut with Ferrari after leaving Mercedes, has struggled to match the pace of teammate Charles Leclerc, intensifying the spotlight on the team’s ongoing challenges.
Sky Sport Italia’s Vicky Piria provided insights into the mood among the Tifosi, describing a combination of disappointment and lingering hope.
she said.
Piria added that Ferrari’s team principal, Fred Vasseur, has tried to manage fan expectations carefully since he took charge, but this season’s early promise had raised hopes to new levels.
The SF-25 underwent major changes over the winter, including a switch from push rod to pull rod front suspension, marking a significant departure from the previous year’s car setup. Ferrari’s engineering team hoped these modifications would unlock improved performance, yet the results have been mixed. With only one podium appearance so far, questions have emerged about whether abandoning last year’s car philosophy was the right decision.
Piria explained.
Despite the struggles, Piria remains confident that the Tifosi’s deep passion will keep their support strong. She does not expect booing or harsh criticism, emphasizing the community’s loyalty.
she said. The long 2025 season still offers opportunities for a turnaround, and memories of McLaren’s dramatic improvement at this point last year keep spirits from fully fading.
Pressure is mounting on Ferrari’s leadership, especially team principal Fred Vasseur, who is now fully responsible for the team’s technical direction and driver lineup. Piria pointed out that any continued underperformance could bring intense scrutiny on Vasseur, a challenge Ferrari has faced before under previous managers.
she said.
Piria compared the situation to Italian football culture, where underperforming teams often replace their coach quickly, suggesting the same could happen if Ferrari’s results don’t improve.
She concluded with a warning:
The coming rounds will be crucial for Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari as they attempt to find reliability and speed in a car that has yet to meet expectations, while the passionate tifosi watch anxiously, hoping the magic of past successes can return soon.
