Former F1 driver reveals the two keys to Ferrari’s future title ambitions. Ralf Schumacher says Ferrari’s title hopes depend on two key factors.

Ferrari, after confirming Fred Vasseur’s contract extension, is focusing on stability and continuity—but according to a former Formula 1 driver, the team needs more to truly raise its ambitions.

The renewal of Fred Vasseur’s leadership, following months of speculation about his future, allows Ferrari to face the second half of the Formula 1 season with a greater sense of calm. Ralf Schumacher, a former F1 driver and now a TV pundit, has identified two factors that could be crucial for the team’s long-term championship hopes.

At present, Ferrari sits second in the Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship. However, the gap to McLaren remains considerable, with a deficit of 268 points. Race after race, Maranello’s chances of reigniting a real title battle are fading. But according to Ralf Schumacher, significant change could come with the 2026 season.

Key factors
Despite Ferrari’s early difficulties this season, the team has managed to reassert itself as the second strongest force on the grid, aided in part by its latest upgrade package. For Schumacher, the decision to extend Vasseur’s leadership sends a vital message: he noted that it was encouraging to see Ferrari now showing consistency, and that both drivers were clearly supporting Vasseur.

Speaking on Sky Sport DE, Ralf Schumacher explained that two elements will be especially decisive for the next phase of Ferrari’s journey: much will depend on the car, but also—and especially—on what Lewis Hamilton is able to do. He stressed that Hamilton is clearly facing difficulties at the moment, and that at a certain point, he will need to prove that he still has what it takes and that success is still within reach.

Schumacher makes a prediction
While Lewis Hamilton’s season has been turbulent, Charles Leclerc’s campaign appears far more stable and consistent. According to the former driver, the Monegasque has everything it takes to become a future World Champion. He pointed out that Leclerc already has the potential to win the title if Ferrari can deliver a competitive car. Leclerc has claimed multiple victories when the machinery was strong enough to allow it. Schumacher acknowledged that Leclerc has made some mistakes, but noted that pushing the limits inevitably leads to errors—just as it has for Max Verstappen recently.