Ferrari absence ‘confirmed’ at Chinese Grand Pr….read more
The famous Italian team, which has historically been one of the sport’s most successful and iconic outfits, has been struggling to find its footing this year. Their latest challenge comes in the form of a crucial absence from their team lineup at the Shanghai International Circuit this weekend. One of Ferrari’s key personnel will be missing from the garage, further complicating their situation during a period where they are desperate to regain momentum.
Following a disappointing outing at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, Ferrari had hoped to bounce back strongly. However, the team’s morale has taken another hit as they prepare for Round 4 of the championship. The absence of a senior figure within the team could have a significant impact on operations during the Chinese Grand Prix, particularly given the high-pressure environment of Formula 1, where every strategic decision and split-second reaction can shape the outcome of a race.
Melbourne’s Grand Prix last weekend proved to be a difficult affair for Ferrari. The team struggled not only with performance issues but also had to contend with chaotic and treacherous weather conditions that heavily influenced the race. The unpredictable weather led to a series of incidents throughout the grid, and Ferrari found themselves unable to capitalize on the opportunities that such conditions often create. Instead, they left Australia frustrated and searching for answers.
Their underwhelming start to the 2025 season is all the more concerning when considering the high expectations placed on them heading into this campaign. After a promising winter testing program, there were signs that Ferrari could challenge the frontrunners and possibly fight for regular podium finishes. However, the first few races have not gone to plan, with a mix of reliability problems, strategic missteps, and driver errors hampering their progress.
The Shanghai circuit, returning to the calendar after several years of absence, is traditionally one of the more technical tracks on the Formula 1 schedule. Its combination of long straights and tight corners demands a well-balanced car setup and razor-sharp teamwork in the pit lane. For Ferrari, entering this critical race weekend without a key member of their leadership team could hinder their ability to make quick decisions during qualifying and the race itself.
Though Ferrari has yet to disclose full details about the absent team member, reports suggest it could be someone from their senior engineering or strategy group—two areas where precision is absolutely vital. The Scuderia will need to rely heavily on the remaining staff to ensure that operations in the garage and on the pit wall are as smooth as possible despite the disruption.
Ferrari’s current form has already raised questions about the direction of their 2025 campaign, with some critics suggesting that internal instability could be contributing to their lack of consistency on track. The absence of a pivotal figure at a crucial race like Shanghai will only add fuel to the growing concerns among fans and paddock insiders alike.
As the team heads to China, all eyes will be on how they handle this fresh challenge. Ferrari must now focus on damage limitation and look to extract the maximum from their SF-25 car under less-than-ideal circumstances. Both drivers, Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz, will be expected to step up and deliver solid performances to help steady the ship as Ferrari seeks to return to the front of the grid.
Ultimately, the Chinese Grand Prix will be a true test of resilience and adaptability for the Scuderia. How they cope with the absence in their garage could go a long way in determining whether Ferrari can recover from their difficult start to the season or if more difficult weekends lie ahead.
