As optimism grows around Ferrari’s performance in Monaco, Frederic Vasseur is doing everything possible to keep expectations under control. While much of the Formula 1 paddock has spent Friday discussing Ferrari’s pace, potential podium finishes and even the possibility of victory, the Ferrari team principal has chosen a far more cautious approach.
For Vasseur, Monaco is one of the most deceptive weekends on the calendar. Strong practice performances may generate headlines and excitement, but they rarely tell the full story. Around the streets of Monte Carlo, the conditions change constantly, grip levels increase dramatically throughout the weekend and the competitive picture can shift significantly by the time qualifying begins.
That is why the Frenchman is refusing to place too much importance on Friday’s results, despite the encouraging signs shown by both Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton.
A Friday that does not reveal the full picture
When asked whether Ferrari should now be considered the team to beat, Frederic Vasseur responded with the calmness that has become one of his trademarks: “No, I am not interested in those kinds of approaches or in the rumours saying that we should simply go out and do the job,” the French manager explained. “In Monaco, the road from the first Friday to qualifying and the race is very long. The most difficult thing is anticipating the evolution of the track and the increase in grip levels, and you always need to stay one step ahead.”
The Ferrari team principal stressed that adapting to those changing conditions remains one of the biggest challenges facing both engineers and drivers throughout the weekend: “That is a real challenge for the team and for the drivers. It means there is still a long way to go, and we will see tomorrow evening what the true pace really is,” he added.
His comments serve as a reminder that Monaco is unlike any other circuit. The track evolves rapidly as more rubber is laid down, and the balance that works on Friday may no longer be ideal when qualifying arrives. For Vasseur, the only meaningful verdict will come on Saturday afternoon, when the cars are pushed to the limit and every driver searches for the perfect lap around the barriers.
Lewis Hamilton carrying momentum, Charles Leclerc providing stability
Although Vasseur remains cautious, he did acknowledge one encouraging trend within the Ferrari camp. Lewis Hamilton appears to have carried the momentum from his strong performance in Canada into the Monaco weekend, displaying increasing confidence and comfort with the SF-26.
“I think it is certainly important, especially for the team’s competitiveness in the long term, because healthy competition between them helps both sides of the garage and contributes to the development of the car,” Vasseur said. “The situation is positive, but the most important thing is that it is still positive tomorrow evening.”
The statement highlights a key aspect of Vasseur’s philosophy. Success is not only measured through lap times but also through the dynamic relationship between teammates and the role both drivers play in improving the car.
A competitive Lewis Hamilton benefits Ferrari as a whole, just as Charles Leclerc’s consistency and deep understanding of the team continue to provide a valuable reference point on the other side of the garage.
Charles Leclerc’s renewal sends a strong message
Vasseur also discussed the significance of Charles Leclerc’s recently announced contract extension, describing it as an important moment for both the driver and the team.
“No, it is excellent news and positive news for the team, for Ferrari and I think for Charles as well,” he said. “It is important to have this kind of continuity. We work very well together. We know each other well and he has known the team for a very long time because he was already part of the academy in 2015 or 2016.”
The Ferrari boss believes the extension sends a powerful signal not only internally but also throughout the Formula 1 paddock.
“Continuing a project like this is a strong message for everyone inside the Scuderia and for the paddock,” he added.
The comments underline the long-term vision Ferrari has built around Charles Leclerc. Having progressed through the Ferrari Driver Academy before reaching Formula 1, the Monegasque has become one of the central figures in the team’s future plans.
As the Monaco Grand Prix weekend enters its decisive phase, Fred Vasseur remains determined not to be distracted by Friday’s headlines. He understands that in Monaco, more than anywhere else, qualifying defines the weekend. It is there that races are often won, strategies are shaped and true performance is revealed.
For now, Ferrari is choosing patience over celebration. The team may have shown impressive pace on Friday, but according to Frederic Vasseur, the only thing that truly matters is where Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton stand when the stopwatch starts ticking in qualifying.
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