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Ferrari Aims for Redemption at Japanese Grand Prix

Following a challenging start to the 2025 Formula 1 season, Ferrari’s team principal, Frederic Vasseur, emphasized the necessity for the Scuderia to fully tap into the potential of their SF-25 car ahead of the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix. The team is looking to bounce back after an unfortunate double disqualification in the previous race in China, positioning them fifth in the Constructors’ Championship—61 points behind frontrunners McLaren.

Despite sporadic moments of promise from their new car, including impressive performances in the recent Sprint race where Lewis Hamilton secured pole position and claimed victory, consistency has eluded the team. Both Hamilton and Charles Leclerc have yet to finish in the top four during any full-length Grand Prix this season.

“As we continue refining our approach, our focus must now be more concentrated than ever on enabling Charles and Lewis to consistently utilize the full capabilities of the SF-25,” Vasseur remarked in the team’s preview for the Japanese GP. “So far, we have primarily showcased our potential during practice sessions and in the Sprint race in Shanghai.”

Vasseur underscored the importance of precision in racing, noting, “Formula 1 is contingent upon minute details, from how we prepare over race weekends to executing strategies on track and adapting to evolving conditions throughout the race. Once we manage to rectify our performance shortcomings, we will gain clearer insight into our competitive standing.”

As Ferrari prepares for the Suzuka circuit, they face significant pressure to improve their standings, especially after losing 18 points due to the disqualification in China. Currently, their total stands at a meager 17 points, placing them beneath Williams in the overall rankings based on countback—a disappointing start, reminiscent of their performance in 2009.

Critical Weekend Ahead for Ferrari

In recent discussions, Sky Sports F1’s Ted Kravitz highlighted the significance of this weekend for Ferrari, stating, “For me, the key storyline here is the response from Ferrari following what many in Italy have termed a disastrous weekend with their double disqualification.” He pointed out the current plight of both Hamilton and Leclerc, with the drivers’ standings reflecting a stark contrast to Ferrari’s historical dominance.

“While Hamilton can take some solace from the directions taken lately, especially following the successful Sprint race, it’s imperative for Ferrari to regain their competitive edge,” Kravitz added.

As the schedule unfolds, the anticipation builds for the Japanese Grand Prix with practice sessions kicking off on April 4, followed by qualifying and the race itself over the weekend.

Schedule Overview:

• Thursday, April 3 – Drivers’ Press Conference
• Friday, April 4
  • 3:00 am – Japanese GP Practice One (starts at 3:30 am)
  • 5:30 am – Team Principals’ Press Conference
  • 6:45 am – Japanese GP Practice Two (starts at 7:00 am)
  • 8:15 am – The F1 Show
• Saturday, April 5
  • 3:15 am – Japanese GP Practice Three (starts at 3:30 am)
  • 6:00 am – Japanese GP Qualifying build-up
  • 7:00 am – Japanese GP Qualifying
  • 9:00 am – Ted’s Qualifying Notebook
• Sunday, April 6
  • 4:30 am – Japanese GP build-up
  • 6:00 am – The Japanese Grand Prix
  • 8:00 am – Japanese GP reaction: Chequered Flag
  • 9:00 am – Ted’s Notebook

*Live coverage available on Sky Sports Main Event

Formula 1’s journey now leads to the historic Suzuka Circuit for the Japanese Grand Prix from April 4-6. For fans looking to tune in, don’t miss the opportunity to catch the action live on Sky Sports F1.

Source
www.skysports.com