Ferrari praises Leclerc’s progress: what does it mean for Hamilton’s 2025 fight?

Ferrari's 2025 Formula 1 campaign is shaping up to be a pivotal battle for Lewis Hamilton, who is currently under pressure after a difficult start with the Scuderia. Despite high expectations following his lucrative signing, Hamilton has yet to secure a podium finish, while teammate Charles Leclerc has demonstrated significant progress.

Team principal Frederic Vasseur noted that Hamilton is "only missing the details," emphasizing that "hundredths" of a second can separate a first-row start from a third. This fine margin highlights the intense competition within the team and the sport.

"Leclerc has made a big step forward in terms of certainty about what he wants," Vasseur said, praising the Monegasque driver’s commitment and growth since Hamilton's arrival.

Leclerc's deep connection with Ferrari is evident, having been part of the team’s academy and racing program from early on. His loyalty and focus contrast with Hamilton's current struggles adapting to the SF-25 car, which has been challenging for both drivers due to rear-end stability issues.

On RacingNews365’s Formula 1 podcast, hosts Tim Coronel and Ruud Dimmers suggested it may be time for Ferrari to officially recognize Hamilton as the No. 2 driver behind Leclerc, a sentiment Coronel strongly supports.

Hamilton himself has hinted at strategic shifts, considering shelving the 2025 car project to focus on next year’s development, underscoring the urgency to improve performance.

As Ferrari navigates these internal dynamics, the battle between Leclerc’s rising momentum and Hamilton’s quest to regain form will be crucial for the team’s 2025 ambitions.

"Hamilton is only missing the details. We are talking about hundredths, which in this balanced Formula 1 can make the difference between a first and a third row - between a good weekend and a less good one."

"Leclerc is in love with Ferrari - his career has had only one colour since the academy and the beginning in GP3. He is tied to the company and the team, he doesn't look around for a better seat but is part of the project and of this family."

Ferrari praises Charles Leclerc's progress amid Lewis Hamilton's challenging start with the team. While Leclerc has shown clear improvement and podium finishes, Hamilton faces pressure and is considered the No. 2 driver. Ferrari's focus on fine details could shape Hamilton's 2025 fight for competitiveness.