The first Grand Prix is here, but Ferrari’s true pace remains uncertain. Can they challenge McLaren and Mercedes, or are struggles ahead?
The wait is over. The first Grand Prix of the season is here, and for Ferrari fans, the big question remains: how competitive is the team? Can McLaren really outpace them? And what about Mercedes—are they a real threat?
Team boss Fred Vasseur admits it’s still tough to judge. Pre-season testing in Bahrain didn’t provide clear answers, and Melbourne’s Albert Park circuit isn’t the best benchmark for the rest of the season. But one thing is certain: Ferrari has done everything possible to be ready.
“The wait is finally over, and we’re excited to get on track. It’s been years since Australia hosted the opening round, so it feels like a step back in time.”
“Albert Park isn’t the most representative track of the season, but we had a strong race here last year.”
When it comes to the competition, Vasseur stays cautious. The team worked hard over the winter, but Bahrain’s test results were tricky to analyze.
“Many unknowns remain, and we’re eager to see where we stand.”
Still, the effort has been there. Charles Leclerc pushed harder than ever in training, and Lewis Hamilton has quickly settled into the team. Now, it’s time to deliver.
“The season is long, but we have everything in place to perform well. We’ll focus on ourselves and make sure we start strong.”
A week ago, Ferrari received a hero’s welcome in Milan. Now, in Melbourne, they’re determined to give their fans even more reasons to be proud.
Loïc Serra: Ferrari’s New Technical Brain
Lewis Hamilton isn’t the only big-name signing at Ferrari. Loïc Serra, formerly of Mercedes, has joined as chassis technical director. Melbourne will be his first real test—how has his first stint at Maranello shaped up?
Albert Park brings its own challenges, from its mix of high-speed sections and tight corners to unpredictable weather.
“In just an hour, conditions can shift from hot to cold, which makes car setup a real challenge.”
“Plus, since the track isn’t used all year, grip levels change constantly over the weekend.”
What about the SF-25? Has Ferrari built a car that can fight at the front?
“Despite tricky weather in Bahrain, testing was productive. We completed our program, and the car proved reliable with no major issues.”
The data Ferrari gathered matched expectations, and the car responded well to changes—crucial for race-to-race performance. Another positive? A strong correlation between real-world track data and the team’s simulator.
“This is fundamental for maximizing performance.”
But Melbourne will be different. The late Australian summer means much hotter conditions than Bahrain, which will impact tire management.
“By the end of the weekend, we’ll have a clearer—though still incomplete—picture of the pecking order.”
Handling the Ferrari Pressure
It’s Serra’s first full season with Ferrari, and expectations are sky-high. Can the team’s legendary passion become a source of pressure?
“‘Impressed’ is the right word for how I feel! The passion for Ferrari, from the fans to the team itself, is incredible. It’s one of the strongest driving forces I’ve ever experienced.”
Inside Ferrari, the mindset is clear: full belief in their goals and total commitment to the fight ahead.
“The energy within the team is extremely positive. We’re ready.”
Melbourne will set the tone—but for Ferrari, this is just the beginning.
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Melbourne Showdown: Where Does Ferrari Really Stand? Melbourne Showdown: Where Does Ferrari Really Stand?
