F1 News Today: Lewis Hamilton Ferrari gamble confirmed as ‘exciting’ change faces… Read more
Ferrari have officially confirmed a significant package of upgrades for the Bahrain Grand Prix, signaling a bold move to address their underwhelming start to the 2025 seasons particularly for their high-profile new signing, Lewis Hamilton.
After three races, Hamilton has struggled to find his rhythm with the Scuderia, managing just 15 points and falling short of pre-season expectations. Ferrari, determined to reverse their fortunes, have introduced a raft of technical changes to the SF-25, including a redesigned floor aimed at improving aerodynamic efficiency and stability, especially in high-speed corners.
Team principal Fred Vasseur described the updates as an “exciting step forward” and expressed confidence that the changes will help both Hamilton and teammate Charles Leclerc unlock more consistent performance from the car. “We know where the weaknesses are,” Vasseur said ahead of Friday’s practice sessions. “This upgrade is part of our ongoing push to close the gap at the front
Hamilton will be the first to test the new floor in FP1, in what many see as a strategic gamble to fasts track his adaptation to Ferrari’s unique car philosophy. While the move has generated excitement among fans eager to see the seven-time world champion return to form, not everyone is convinced.
Early reactions from rival teams and commentators have been mixed, with some questioning whether Ferrari are pushing upgrades too aggressively, too soon. The Scuderia’s performance drop since the Chinese Grand Prix—where both drivers were disqualified has prompted growing pressure, but critics warn that rushing development could cause reliability issues or further complicate the car’s setup.
Adding to the scrutiny is Ferrari’s rookie involvement in FP1, with Dino Beganovic filling in for Leclerc as part of the FIA’s mandatory rookie program. This leaves Hamilton solely responsible for gathering early feedback on the upgrade package, placing added pressure on the British driver.
Still, Hamilton remains optimistic. “It’s early days, but I’m excited about the direction we’re heading,” he told reporters. “The team has worked flats out to bring updates here, and I’m looking forward to seeing how they translate on track
Ferrari currently sit fourth in the Constructors’ Championship, well behind early leaders McLaren. If the Bahrain upgrades don’t deliver an immediate performance boost, speculation may grow over whether the team should begin shifting focus to 2026’s sweeping regulation changes.
For now, though, all eyes are on Hamilton and Ferrari as they hope this “exciting” gamble pays offs before it becomes another story of missed potential.
