Ferrari experienced contrasting results at the Brazilian GP, with Team Principal Fred Vasseur analyzing the qualifying session and explaining the aerodynamic changes. He also commented on Ferrari’s triumph in the WEC, which provided a confidence boost for the entire Maranello team.
Leclerc shines, Hamilton struggles
Fred Vasseur discussed Ferrari’s qualifying, which ended with two very different outcomes: the joy of Charles Leclerc, who placed the SF-25 in P3, and the disappointment of Lewis Hamilton, who could only manage P13.
Compared to the Sprint sessions, the Team Principal admitted that adjustments were made to the car, including changes to the rear wing that reduced aerodynamic drag. These corrections addressed issues in top speed, as both drivers acknowledged, allowing the Monegasque driver to fight for a front-row position in a closely contested session.
Vasseur: “Sixteen drivers within a few tenths”
Speaking to Sky Sport F1, Fred Vasseur highlighted the tightly packed Brazilian grid, explaining Ferrari’s improved performance after a less competitive Sprint. Attention was drawn to the unusual cars appearing in the top 10.
“It comes from the fact that the grid is getting closer and closer,” began Ferrari’s Team Principal. “We’re talking about mere tenths of a second between first and sixteenth place. This means that if you make a small mistake, don’t execute your launch lap perfectly, or get stuck in traffic, you can end up out in Q1 or Q2.”
He compared the situation to the Texas GP: “It’s similar to what happened in Austin, where we recovered well after Sprint qualifying. Today we did a better job than yesterday. It’s about putting everything together and executing perfectly. We’re not talking tenths, but hundredths of a second that can move you from tenth to third.”
Aerodynamic changes
Fred Vasseur also analyzed the modifications made after Sprint difficulties. By adjusting the rear wing and reducing aerodynamic load, the car regained performance.
“The reason is simple: we expected rain this morning for the race, but it didn’t come. For tonight’s qualifying, we chose a lower aerodynamic load,” he explained.
WEC success boosts Ferrari
Ferrari recently secured the World Championship in the WEC, winning both the Constructors’ and Drivers’ titles, a triumph that came during the final minutes of Q3. Fred Vasseur took the opportunity to comment on this achievement.
“It’s a result that does us good,” said the French manager. “We are one team and we’re delighted with Ferrari’s victory in Bahrain. We support them from São Paulo, and it’s great for team spirit and the company. We will push hard to support each other, and I’m extremely happy with what happened.”
He concluded: “It’s a positive energy that we need.”
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