Frédéric Vasseur has revealed the challenges Ferrari will face at the Mexico GP, emphasizing the detailed work required on the SF-25.
The Scuderia’s Team Principal is energized after Austin: the solid result and the elimination of swirling rumors around Ferrari have created a more relaxed atmosphere. However, the SF-25 will encounter a new set of challenges this weekend in Mexico, and here is Fred Vasseur’s perspective ahead of the race.
The Formula 1 championship moves from the flat plains of Texas to over 2,000 meters above sea level in Mexico City for the Grand Prix in the Central American capital. The high altitude makes it one of the most technically demanding races on the calendar. The Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez sits at 2,285 meters above sea level. As a result, thin air becomes a crucial factor, affecting aerodynamic efficiency, component cooling, and tire management. Ferrari will also introduce a new element on the SF-25’s engine cover.
The circuit layout alternates long straights with heavy braking zones and several twisty sections. This typically encourages teams to plan a one-stop strategy, relying on the usually moderate tire degradation in Mexico City. However, altitude can alter this logic: pushing too hard may overheat the tires, forcing an extra pit stop.
Vasseur: “The key will be finding the right balance”
“In Austin, thanks to strong teamwork and support from everyone in Maranello, we managed to complete one of the season’s most solid weekends. Maintaining this high level of focus and determination is crucial for the final part of the year. Mexico presents very different challenges, mainly due to the altitude, which impacts cooling, power unit performance, aerodynamics, and tire behavior. The key will be finding the right balance between all these factors. The atmosphere in Mexico is always incredible, fueled by the energy and enthusiasm of the fans, which is felt throughout the weekend,” Fred Vasseur explained.
Ferrari’s main objective remains second place in the Constructors’ Championship, with a lead over Mercedes and Red Bull that the Team Principal says the Italian team must exploit. After Charles Leclerc handed over his car to Dino Beganovic during early practice sessions in Bahrain and Austria, it will now be Lewis Hamilton’s turn. In FP1 in Mexico, Antonio Fuoco will drive the SF-25 alongside Charles Leclerc. The two are close friends and will be able to share the track in the first session. Naturally, Hamilton will then return to his seat. The seven-time world champion will have to hand over the car again in remaining 2025 races due to the mandatory FIA regulation introduced this year.
Leave a Reply