Ferrari confirms Lewis Hamilton NOT P...read more

Ferrari confirms Lewis Hamilton NOT P…read more

Ferrari has confirmed that Lewis Hamilton will not be the central focus of the team’s development strategy for the remainder of the 2025 Formula 1 season. The clarification comes amid growing speculation regarding the internal dynamics between Hamilton and teammate Charles Leclerc, who currently holds a stronger position in the Drivers’ Championship.

Team Principal Frédéric Vasseur addressed the matter during a media briefing ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, noting that Ferrari’s upcoming upgrade packages have been aligned with broader team objectives rather than individual driver needs.

“Our development path is focused on overall performance and maximizing points in the Constructors’ Championship. There is no shift away from Lewis, but the upgrades are based on data-driven needs,” said Vasseur.

While Hamilton’s start to life at Ferrari has been challenging—marked by inconsistent performance and limited podium finishes—sources within the team have indicated that the priority for the SF-25’s ongoing updates will lean toward configurations that suit Leclerc’s driving style, given his current momentum.

The next significant upgrade to the car is now expected to arrive at the Imola Grand Prix, rather than at the upcoming sprint rounds. Ferrari engineers have described the planned changes as “evolutionary rather than revolutionary,” aimed at refining aerodynamic efficiency and balance.

Hamilton, speaking to media earlier this week, acknowledged the team’s direction and expressed confidence in the long-term vision.

“Of course, I want to be competitive now, but I understand the strategic approach. My focus is on building something strong for the future,” he said.

Insiders suggest that Ferrari has already begun allocating considerable resources toward their 2026 program, which will feature sweeping technical regulation changes. Both Hamilton and Leclerc are expected to play key roles in shaping that car.

Despite recent criticism from segments of the Italian press, Ferrari maintains that Hamilton’s contribution remains valuable, particularly in terms of car feedback and experience.

Analysis:
Ferrari’s recent statement appears to be a strategic effort to manage expectations during a transitional period. With 2025 unlikely to yield a title challenge, the Scuderia seems increasingly committed to long-term competitiveness under the 2026 ruleset.