Ferrari acknowledges its accountability for the transition in early development.

Ferrari acknowledges its accountability for the transition in early development.

      Ferrari's late-season downfall has resulted in one of the team's most difficult weekends in recent history, with both Italian media and rival teams criticizing them as Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc faced nearly backmarker performance. Team principal Frederic Vasseur maintained that the main issue was an unforeseen increase in tyre pressure mandated by Pirelli. "All teams faced a tyre-pressure issue," he stated. "We were operating the cars at six points more pressure than in previous races, which was the crucial factor. In Abu Dhabi, we will return to standard conditions, so we can hope for a better outcome."

      However, many view this explanation as a significant understatement. Ferrari has halted development for 2025 prematurely, morale is declining, and Hamilton is experiencing what might be the worst phase of his career. Vasseur acknowledged the tangible psychological effect within the cockpit. "Starting tomorrow morning, we will get back to work," the Frenchman said. "But 90 percent of our efforts are now directed towards next year. We must prepare for the potential of 2026."

      Corriere della Sera's headline was harsh: "Ferrari is a disaster - 0." Hamilton, who has been avoiding photographers in the paddock, expressed his desire to escape after Abu Dhabi. "I’d prefer to be on a beach or surfing. I can’t wait to recharge," he shared. "I can’t sleep at night anymore." He also attributed this to ongoing criticism. "The constant negativity from the media affects everyone. They come home and their spouses say, 'This is what they say about your colleagues.' It has a significant impact."

      Vasseur told RMC that he takes responsibility for the early shift in development. "It's a risk for next year. We were expecting better this year, but we faced technical problems since the Bahrain tests," he asserted. He also defended Hamilton against suggestions of retirement. "Psychologically, we're focusing less on 2025 as we're thinking about the future. Next year will be a different championship. The drivers will need to lead us based on the tests."

      Regarding Leclerc, he stated that Ferrari must be honest, even after chairman John Elkann instructed the drivers to "talk less." "At the beginning of the year, I believed we had done a good job, but it wasn't sufficient," he remarked. "We sacrificed two-thirds of the season for next year's car. However, it's surprising to be so far behind. I feel for the fans. Our time will come—I believe that—but this weekend was unacceptable."

      Hamilton also candidly evaluated his first season at Ferrari. "There are many things that need to change," he said. "We need to preserve the positives and modify what hasn’t worked." Ralf Schumacher did not hold back in his assessment. "Lewis hasn’t managed to fit into the team," he told Sky Deutschland. "He’s unable to adapt to the car. He’s stuck in the past—that's typical for an older driver. My prediction? It’s tough and increasingly unsolvable. Bearman should be given a chance next year."

Other articles

Ferrari acknowledges its accountability for the transition in early development.

Ferrari acknowledges its accountability for the transition in early development.