Ferrari Under Pressure at Japanese GP as Hamilton Criticizes Qualifying

Former Formula 1 champion Jacques Villeneuve suggests Ferrari is facing significant challenges following a disappointing start to the 2025 season.

Lewis Hamilton, in his debut season with Ferrari after moving from Mercedes, where he secured seven world championships, qualified eighth for the Japanese Grand Prix. His teammate, Charles Leclerc, finished fourth in qualifying. This comes after both drivers were disqualified from the Chinese Grand Prix two weeks prior.

Hamilton`s victory in the sprint race in China remains Ferrari`s high point this season. In the Australian Grand Prix season opener, Hamilton and Leclerc finished tenth and eighth, respectively, accumulating single-digit points before the race at Suzuka.

Villeneuve commented that Ferrari is aware of their difficulties and lacks a clear path to improvement. He believes their rivals will progress, creating a concerning outlook for Ferrari.

Hamilton: My Performance Was Unsatisfactory

Hamilton voiced his disappointment with his qualifying performance, stating it was “not good enough” on his part. He finished more than six-tenths of a second behind Max Verstappen, who surprisingly secured pole position.

Verstappen of Red Bull claimed the top spot, surpassing McLaren`s Lando Norris, the championship leader, with a lap record time of 1:26.983 at Suzuka.

Hamilton`s disqualification in China resulted from excessive wear on his skid block. This might explain Ferrari`s decision to run their car with a higher ride height in Japan.

Leclerc: Significant Gap to McLaren and Red Bull

When questioned about whether Ferrari`s ride height was impacting their performance, Leclerc indicated that they had other issues besides ride height, without elaborating.

He noted that in qualifying, particularly in Q3, the car`s performance began to decline. He experienced both oversteer and understeer but was ultimately satisfied with his lap.

Leclerc mentioned that adjustments to his driving style since Friday practice have improved his confidence and car feel, which is a positive sign for the remainder of the season. However, he acknowledged the considerable gap to McLaren and Red Bull, emphasizing that closing this gap is Ferrari`s primary objective. Overall, he expressed increased comfort with the car.