Former Ferrari driver Gerhard Berger has offered his advice to the Scuderia, emphasizing the importance of calm and team unity during challenging times. According to Berger, when victories are scarce, emotions naturally run higher within the team.
It has now been over a year since Ferrari last won a Formula 1 race. The Italian team’s most recent victory came on October 27, 2024, when Carlos Sainz triumphed at the Mexico City Grand Prix. Since then, Ferrari fans have had to wait patiently for another moment of glory from the Maranello team. This extended winless period was certainly unexpected by the team, particularly after the 2024 season ended on a high note, with Ferrari challenging McLaren for the Constructors’ Championship up until the final race.
Currently sitting fourth in the Constructors’ Championship with just three race weekends remaining in the 2025 season, Ferrari naturally faces increased scrutiny from F1 insiders, analysts, and prominent figures within the paddock. Opinions about the current state of the team are multiplying, adding pressure to the men and women of Maranello. The situation was further fueled by comments from Ferrari chairman John Elkann, who urged the drivers “to talk less and focus on driving,” sparking additional debate among fans and pundits.
Drawing on his extensive experience with Ferrari, which includes 96 Grand Prix starts and five wins, Gerhard Berger spoke to Repubblica about the team’s challenges this season. “Expectations for Ferrari are always much higher compared to other teams,” he said. “Even if they finish the season in fourth place, it will be considered insufficient. The issue is that they are very close to second place, which is not an impossible target but also not easy. Yet, it is a goal that Ferrari is always expected to achieve.”
Gerhard Berger also reflected on John Elkann’s remarks. “When success doesn’t come, people become more emotional. This applies to mechanics, engineers, managers, and also the drivers. Charles Leclerc is performing very well, and I am sure that Lewis Hamilton is trying everything possible to win another World Championship, which is his main goal. However, at the moment, things are not going perfectly.”
Offering his advice to the team, the Austrian former driver emphasized the need for patience and consistency. “I believe the most important thing is to remain calm and focus on continuity, consistency, and unity. I remember when Jean Todt arrived at Ferrari—it took years for the team to win the World Championship, and then they went on to become the strongest team of all.”
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