The comparison between Ferrari’s two drivers is undoubtedly one of the main topics at the start of this 2025 Formula 1 season. This has become even more prominent after Friday at the Australian Grand Prix, where Ferrari fans expressed concern over the gap between Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton. Fred Vasseur stepped in to calm the situation.
The British driver finished 12th and 5th in the first two free practice sessions at Melbourne’s Albert Park circuit. These results were likely influenced by a work program that did not prioritize outright performance and the fact that car number 44 still needs time to adapt to a new driving style and a new car.
Fred Vasseur Quells the Controversy
For this reason, Frederic Vasseur decided to address the matter, shutting down any premature controversy surrounding Lewis Hamilton. “We don’t expect him to reach the limit after just one session,” said Ferrari’s team principal. “His goal is to keep learning about the team, the procedures, and the various systems. I’m convinced that in some aspects, we are very similar to Mercedes, but adaptation still takes time.” – the French manager pointed out.
“We only had a few test days, but they were nothing like a race weekend. That’s why I’m absolutely not worried about Lewis. You can’t draw conclusions after just one day of practice, and I have no doubt he will be competitive this season. If we look at last year, Carlos Sainz was behind on Friday and then won the race,” Fred Vasseur concluded at the end of the second free practice session for the Australian Grand Prix.
