Ferrari is getting ready for its final significant upgrade of 2025.

      "We are competing more with Mercedes and Red Bull."

      Amidst ongoing speculation and scrutiny, Ferrari is actively preparing for the second half of the 2025 season. Recently, at the Austrian Grand Prix, the final aerodynamic upgrade from the Maranello wind tunnel was incorporated into the red single-seater - a new floor. This week, during a 'filming day' at Ferrari-owned Mugello on Wednesday, the 2025 car will showcase the much-anticipated new rear suspension design, likely making its debut at Spa-Francorchamps next weekend.

      However, long-time test driver and Ferrari ambassador, Marc Gene, acknowledges that Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton aren't in contention for the drivers' championship. "I hope the battle between (Lando) Norris and (Oscar) Piastri continues until the very end," he mentioned to Diario Sport, "because they will be the ones contending for the title." The Spaniard also noted that Ferrari isn’t focused on diminishing the significant points gap to McLaren in the constructors’ standings. "We are competing more with Mercedes and Red Bull," stated the 51-year-old Gene. "We aim to secure second place in the constructors’ championship - it's crucial for us. However, to achieve this, we must collaborate effectively as a team. Currently, we are performing well. Our drivers are giving their all."

      Nonetheless, Ferrari and its drivers have not performed well enough to quell the criticisms from Italy and the rampant speculation that team principal Frederic Vasseur’s contract may not be renewed. Many hopes are now pinned on how Ferrari will adapt to the new regulations for 2026. "It’s a significant change," Gene remarked.

      As for 2025, this season has posed a considerable change and challenge for seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. "Not only Hamilton," Gene explained. "All the drivers who have switched teams have faced a bit of a struggle adapting to their new cars. This has been particularly evident for those who spent many years with a single team, like Lewis, who was with Mercedes for 12 years." He continued, "It's been a complicated year for him, although Austria was his best race, aside from the sprint he won in China. The reality is that he has performed well. I feel he is progressively adapting better to the car. However, next year, this entire process of adjusting to the team, the driving style, and our overall working methods should be completed.

      "It remains to be seen if we can provide him with a competitive car, as despite our confidence, we cannot be certain," Gene added.