Formula 1 Wednesday update, December 17, 2025: Ferrari reflects on a challenging season
This Wednesday, the focus is on Ferrari, currently in a deep phase of self-reflection. After a grueling season, the team is forced to look in the mirror and evaluate its future without filters. With new technical additions from Mercedes, candid reflections from team principal Fred Vasseur, and the 2026 project seen as a real “point of no return,” Maranello is experiencing a period of profound change, more cultural than media-driven.
The perspective then broadens to include official announcements and topics beyond the track: from the return of Portimao to the F1 calendar, to sporting recognitions such as Max Verstappen’s overtake of the year, and even the first strategic moves by Honda ahead of the new technical era.
The human side of the paddock also features prominently, with Oscar Piastri sharing a message following the Bondi Beach attack in Sydney. Attention is also given to FIA leadership decisions and Damon Hill’s strong opinions on Lewis Hamilton’s future.
Ferrari
Ferrari has recently hired two engineers from Mercedes, bringing new ideas and a fresh mentality. Under the guidance of technical director Serra, these former Mercedes technicians—though not high-profile figures—are expected to contribute valuable expertise to simulations and wind tunnel development.
The team is preparing for a total revolution in 2026, treating it as a “now or never” moment. After a nightmare season, Ferrari is planning a radical project to regain competitiveness.
Fred Vasseur admitted that projecting towards 2026 midway through the season had been dramatic. He reflected on the challenges Ferrari faced in 2025 and explained the decision to start working on the 2026 car earlier than usual.
Other Formula 1 news
It has been officially confirmed that Formula 1 will return to Portimao from 2027. The announcement was made through a press release, confirming that the Portuguese Grand Prix will once again take place at the Portimao circuit.
Max Verstappen was awarded the Action of the Year at the FIA Gala for his incredible overtake on Oscar Piastri during the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix. This marks the fifth time the Dutch driver has received this prestigious award.
Honda has moved ahead of competitors by announcing that its new Power Unit for the 2026 season will be presented in Tokyo in January. The 2026 season marks the start of a new technical era with many unknowns, and Honda is setting the pace early.
In recent hours, Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach was the scene of an anti-Semitic attack that resulted in over 16 casualties. Oscar Piastri expressed his solidarity and support through social media following the tragic event.
The FIA has appointed a new Chief Financial Officer, drawing talent from Geneva’s financial sector. This decision reflects the organization’s focus on strengthening its governance and financial oversight.
Damon Hill, the 1996 Formula 1 World Champion, expressed a strong opinion on Lewis Hamilton, suggesting that the era of the seven-time World Champion might be coming to an end. Naming four drivers as examples, Hill highlighted the evolving competitive landscape in Formula 1 while Hamilton is still active, underlining a significant shift in the sport.
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