Jolyon Palmer doubles down on 2025 Ferrari prediction that Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc will… Read more
Jolyon Palmer doubles down on 2025 Ferrari prediction that Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc will love
Ferrari’s 2025 season has been anything but straightforward, but former Formula 1 driver turned pundit Jolyon Palmer believes that the Scuderia’s fortunes are still heading in a direction that both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc will ultimately embrace. Despite a campaign marred by inconsistency and internal pressure, Palmer has doubled down on his earlier prediction that Ferrari’s new philosophy will eventually pay off — even if it hasn’t yielded immediate success.
Ferrari entered the season with bold promises after the winter break, unveiling a significant shift in car philosophy intended to finally match the pace of McLaren and Red Bull. Yet, while the team has shown flashes of brilliance, it has also endured bitter frustrations. At the halfway point of the year, Ferrari sit second in the constructors’ standings — an achievement that underscores resilience, but also the reality that their title challenge has not fully materialised.
Leclerc leading the charge
If there has been a shining light for Ferrari this year, it has been Leclerc. The Monegasque driver has collected several podium finishes and continues to show impressive consistency. His pole position at the Hungarian Grand Prix, taken in commanding style, reminded both fans and critics alike of his raw speed and capacity to maximise opportunities. According to Palmer, Leclerc’s adaptability is one of Ferrari’s strongest assets, enabling him to adjust to the unpredictable performance window of the SF-25.
“Leclerc has this natural ability to mould himself around the car’s behaviour,” Palmer explained during his recent analysis. “That’s what makes him thrive, even when the machinery is difficult to handle. Ferrari will love that about him, and it’s something Hamilton can also benefit from once he gets comfortable.”
Hamilton’s struggle for form
On the other side of the garage, however, Hamilton has endured a frustrating run. The seven-time world champion’s debut season in red has been overshadowed by uncharacteristic struggles. While there have been flashes of competitiveness, long stretches of underwhelming performances have left him languishing behind his teammate.
Canadian commentator James Hinchcliffe recently jumped to Hamilton’s defence, insisting that “no one agrees” with the Briton’s self-critical remark that he has been “useless” at Ferrari. Hinchcliffe argued that Hamilton is still adjusting to a car concept that doesn’t naturally suit his driving style.
Palmer echoed a similar sentiment, stressing patience. “Hamilton’s talent doesn’t evaporate. What he’s dealing with is a steep adaptation curve. Ferrari’s philosophy requires time, and I believe once he unlocks it, both he and the team will thrive. That’s why I stand by my prediction that this project will end up being something Hamilton and Leclerc love.”
Looking ahead to Zandvoort
The upcoming Dutch Grand Prix could prove crucial for Hamilton to turn his fortunes around. Zandvoort’s technical layout rewards precision and confidence — two qualities Hamilton has long been known for. Ferrari will be hoping that their car’s recent upgrades give both drivers a stronger platform to attack, particularly against McLaren and Mercedes, who continue to apply pressure in the constructors’ battle.
For Palmer, the road may be bumpy, but the destination is promising. Ferrari’s gamble on a new direction might not yet have toppled the grid’s giants, but the ingredients are in place for a long-term payoff. With Leclerc already thriving and Hamilton still adapting, the ex-Renault driver insists that both men will ultimately see the value in this bold vision.
“Ferrari are closer to the front than they were a couple of years ago,” Palmer concluded. “They’re second in the championship, they’re pushing for wins, and with drivers like Leclerc and Hamilton, the ceiling is incredibly high. It’s just a matter of time before both truly enjoy the rewards of this shift.”
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