Charles Leclerc has expressed optimism regarding Ferrari’s prospects for the Formula 1 title in 2025, viewing it as a “realistic” goal. The United States Grand Prix is seen as a critical benchmark for the team’s performance as they strive to assess their progress during the 2024 season.
Despite an inconsistent season, Leclerc’s recent performances, including four podium finishes and a victory in Monza, suggest that Ferrari is starting to turn things around. However, their competitiveness remains uncertain following a disappointing result in Singapore.
The upcoming race in Austin will be pivotal for Ferrari, as they plan to introduce their final upgrade for the SF-24. Leclerc believes this will be an essential test of the team’s advancements. After finishing second in Baku, he emphasized that while the team has made progress, they need to validate this on a more traditional circuit like Circuit of the Americas (COTA). He highlighted the unique characteristics of previous tracks, indicating that they may not reflect Ferrari’s true potential.
Leclerc’s comments underscore his desire for Ferrari to challenge for wins consistently. He recognizes that different race tracks present distinct challenges, which can complicate assessments of performance. By identifying Austin as a more representative track, he hopes to clarify where Ferrari stands in terms of competitiveness and if they can truly aim for victory in future races. His cautious yet hopeful perspective reflects an understanding of the complexities within the sport.
The prospect of Lewis Hamilton joining Ferrari next season adds another layer of excitement to the team’s ambitions. Leclerc has mentioned the potential for collaborative growth, with Hamilton’s experience likely to bring valuable insights. He remains confident that the team will continue making strides in performance, emphasizing that progress takes time. This blend of confidence and patience is crucial as Ferrari aims to regain its status among the top contenders in F1.
In the current 2024 Drivers’ Championship, Leclerc occupies third place, 34 points behind Lando Norris and 86 points off the leader, Max Verstappen. His position illustrates the challenges Ferrari faces in closing the gap with the frontrunners. With the integration of new upgrades and the impending arrival of Hamilton, the team’s trajectory is poised for improvement, setting the stage for what they hope will be a successful 2025 season.