Vasseur hails Hamilton’s rising confidence as Ferrari targets reset after mixed Monaco weekend
Ferrari left Monaco with contrasting emotions: Lewis Hamilton delivered another confident drive to secure his second consecutive podium, while Charles Leclerc’s home race ended in heartbreak after a brake‑related crash in the closing stages.
Team principal Fred Vasseur, back in the paddock on Sunday after missing qualifying due to health issues, struck a measured but optimistic tone as he assessed the team’s performance.
Vasseur began by emphasising the broader trajectory Ferrari has established in recent weeks, highlighting Hamilton’s form as a key indicator of progress: “We have to stay positive because, overall, this has been another strong weekend for us.
"Lewis secured his second consecutive podium and I think he achieved the maximum that was available with our package today. Over the last few races we have seen him growing in confidence and feeling more comfortable in the car, which is encouraging and reflects the progress we are making as a team.”
Hamilton’s run to second — his record‑equalling eighth Monaco podium — was built on consistency, tyre management, and a clean execution of the Safety Car restart sequence. Even after serving a five‑place penalty for pit‑lane speeding, he remained ahead of Leclerc and controlled the race behind Antonelli.
But the other side of the garage told a very different story. Leclerc, who had closed to within three seconds of Hamilton before the Safety Car, crashed at the final corner after suffering a sudden brake issue — the latest chapter in a weekend marked by braking inconsistencies.
Vasseur did not hide his disappointment: “For Charles, it was obviously a very frustrating outcome. We experienced brake issues throughout the weekend and something was clearly not working as it should.
"We will analyse the situation carefully, understand exactly what happened and make sure we address it before Barcelona. Charles was in a strong position and it's disappointing to lose those points, especially in his home race.”
The Frenchman stressed that Ferrari must remain focused on its internal processes rather than the championship picture, especially with the team showing clear signs of competitiveness across different circuits.
“We need to keep our focus on ourselves, continue working hard and maximise every opportunity. The mood within the team is positive, the direction is the right one and we have another opportunity in just a few days' time to keep moving forward.”
