The Chinese Grand Prix arrives at a critical moment for Ferrari, which must bounce back from a disappointing performance in Australia. The SF-25 needs to prove it can challenge McLaren, Red Bull, and Mercedes, while both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc must deliver a strong performance to silence growing concerns.
In Melbourne, strategic missteps and a lack of decisive calls proved costly. Both Hamilton and Leclerc struggled with pit stop decisions, failing to assert their influence when it mattered most. While McLaren and Mercedes reacted swiftly to the changing weather, Ferrari hesitated. Max Verstappen took control of his situation, actively discussing strategy with his engineer, whereas the Ferrari duo waited for direction.
Team radio exchanges exposed rising tensions. Hamilton acknowledged he is still adjusting to working with race engineer Riccardo Adami, while Leclerc—despite a longer working relationship with Bryan Bozzi—showed signs of frustration. The synergy between drivers and the pit wall is clearly still a work in progress.
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Shanghai represents more than just a chance for Ferrari to recover; it’s a test of team unity. If Hamilton and Leclerc truly aim to contend for the championship, they must take on a greater leadership role in decision-making and demonstrate their ability to handle high-pressure moments. Because if Ferrari falters again in China, internal frustrations could deepen even further.
