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Vasseur tells most difficult aspect of working with Leclerc and Sainz

Vasseur tells most difficult aspect of working with Leclerc and Sainz

17 August at 18:00
2
  • Kada Sarkozi
  • Editor

Ferrari are going through a rough patch at the moment in Formula One. The Italian team are seem to be behind their three rivals, McLaren, Red Bull and Mercedes at the moment, and they are yet to win a Grand Prix since Monaco. Team principal Frederic Vasseur explained what is the hardest part of his current job at Ferrari.

"It’s a huge challenge, it’s probably the most demanding job in my business. But the mood is there and the mood is important for the final result. We have to keep the positive attitude that we have and try to do a better job," Frederic Vasseur told F1.com. Ferrari have won so far two Grands Prix in 2024, the Australian and the Monaco Grand Prix. However, following the team's double podium success at Monaco, Ferrari began to fall back behind their rivals.

Another worrying aspect for the Italians is that since Leclerc's win in Monaco, Ferrari fininshed on the podium twice: Carlos Sainz finished third in Austria after Lando Norris and Max Verstappen made contact, and Leclerc finished third at Spa after George Russell's disqualification.

Charles Leclerc managed to win his home Grand Prix, the Monegasque driver also struggled himself. "We have permanent discussions with Charles. He knows the situation on our side, what we do well and what we did wrong and he knows sometimes he did some mistakes. But we’re not in the situation that we’re trying to put the responsibility on someone."

He added: "It’s also where it’s good to have a personal relationship." Vasseur began working together with Leclerc at Sauber, and Leclerc repeatedly underlined that he trusts the Frenchman.

Vasseur praises Sainz

Carlos Sainz had to look for a new team after Ferrari announced early in 2024 that Lewis Hamilton will join them in the 2025 season. The Spaniard has signed for Williams, but will still complete 10 more Grands Prix weekends with the Italians. "He’s very strong in mind, he’s very consistent. There are only two races I could see that were tough for him over the last 36. He is very dedicated, very focused," the team principal praised his departing driver.