Ferrari Climbs to Second in Standings After Strong Run

Scuderia Ferrari has moved up to second place in the Formula 1 Constructors' Championship following a recent series of strong performances across three consecutive race weekends. Solid results at Imola, Monaco, and most recently, the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona, have propelled the Italian team ahead in the standings after what was initially a challenging start to the season. The SF-25 car showed signs of improved qualifying pace in Barcelona, allowing Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc to secure grid positions of fifth and seventh respectively. While the team anticipated even better race pace based on recent form, the Spanish Grand Prix presented a mix of outcomes for the driver pairing. Charles Leclerc's race unfolded strategically. Benefiting from a well-timed two-stop strategy, his prospects were further enhanced by a safety car intervention. This allowed him to capitalize on opportunities at the restart, notably overtaking Max Verstappen as the reigning champion had a moment into Turn 1. Leclerc demonstrated competitive pace at various points, matching race winner Oscar Piastri's lap times at certain stages, ultimately securing a valuable finish. Conversely, teammate Lewis Hamilton experienced a more challenging afternoon. After a promising start where he gained a position, Hamilton reported issues with tyre degradation and later balance problems. He was instructed to let Leclerc pass early on to manage tyre life. Mercedes' undercut strategy during the second pit stop phase saw George Russell move ahead of Hamilton. Post-safety car, Hamilton even lost a position on track, indicating the difficulties he faced with the car's performance on the day. Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur expressed satisfaction with the team's recent momentum and their climb to second in the championship. He acknowledged the complexities of tyre strategy in Spain, particularly understanding the performance delta between the Medium and Soft compounds, noting the Soft tyre's eventual benefit for Leclerc. Vasseur highlighted the positive impact of the safety car on Leclerc's race. While recognizing Hamilton's struggles with balance later in his stint, Vasseur noted the importance of him still bringing home points. Vasseur emphasized that the team has shown consistent progress since the Miami Grand Prix, with the exception of qualifying at Imola. He underlined that McLaren remains ahead in the championship, but Ferrari is actively working to close the gap step by step and maintain their challenge at the front of the field.