Brakes under scrutiny at Ferrari: Imola FP2 marred by complaints from both drivers. • Leclerc and Hamilton Highlight Brake Problems Ahead of Imola Qualifying.

Poor on single-lap pace, better in race simulation

Ferrari’s FP2 session was quite inconsistent. Negative in terms of single-lap performance – with Charles Leclerc finishing sixth and Lewis Hamilton even outside the top 10 in eleventh – but interesting for the pace shown in long runs and race simulations. That’s an encouraging sign, although the layout of the Imola track, known for being difficult for overtaking, still makes a strong qualifying lap crucial to secure a good starting position.

The sensitive brake issue
The early part of the afternoon free practice was affected by issues on the SF-25s. Both Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, within minutes of each other, made clear complaints over the radio about problems with the car’s brakes. The first to raise the issue was the Briton, who has struggled to adapt to the new car in this early part of the season. “These damn brakes,” said #44 in frustration over the radio, adding, “these brakes are a problem.”

Shortly after, similar complaints came from Charles Leclerc, who described the issue in more detail, pointing to difficulties during warm-up laps: “The brakes in warm-up mode are horrendous. Guys, they’re not braking,” said the Monegasque driver. Apparently, something was resolved during the session given the solid pace shown in the later race simulations, but brakes remain a key concern, especially looking ahead to tomorrow’s qualifying.