Vasseur: Teams to 'assess' very early in 2025

      Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur acknowledges that some teams may only upgrade their cars once this season. There is growing anticipation for a competitive 2025 championship, as Williams and Haas have now joined McLaren in bringing their new cars onto the track. Even McLaren's 2025 vehicle resembles its title-winning car from 2024. James Vowles confirms that Williams' new car, which appeared at Silverstone with a temporary livery, is clearly an evolution of last year's model. He acknowledges that Williams' attention is primarily on the significant rule changes coming in 2026 and beyond.

      "I've made it clear to Carlos (Sainz) and Alex Albon that 2025 will be challenging," Vowles stated. "We have to make compromises this year. We certainly don't want to finish tenth in the championship, but if I need to accept limitations this season to be better positioned for 2026, I will do so. Our main focus is already on 2026, 2027, and 2028."

      In contrast, Andrea Stella from McLaren emphasizes that the Woking-based team is committed to emerging from the winter break and competing for both championships. "There will definitely be upgrades in the early races of the new season," he said. "It will be as if the rule change in 2026 isn't happening."

      Vasseur, however, takes a more pragmatic view regarding the unfolding of the season. "Teams will evaluate their positions after the first round of developments," the Frenchman remarked. "If they see a chance to win the championship, they will continue to focus on the current car. No one willingly gives up on a title. But if a team is too far behind, they will cease development of the 2025 car sooner and shift their efforts fully towards 2026."