Leclerc Calls Ferrari F1 Drivers “Passengers” After Singapore Struggles

Charles Leclerc expressed deep frustration following another disappointing performance at the Singapore Grand Prix, where he finished sixth, while fellow driver Lewis Hamilton secured eighth place. Leclerc stated that the current state of the Ferrari SF-25 has relegated them to the role of “passengers,” as they struggle to keep pace with the leading teams, specifically McLaren, Mercedes, and Red Bull.

Both Leclerc and Hamilton faced significant braking issues during the race, which contributed to their lackluster results. With five races completed without a podium for Ferrari, the gap to the top teams has widened. During this time, Max Verstappen achieved consecutive victories in Monza and Baku, while George Russell triumphed for Mercedes in Singapore. This situation has left Ferrari on the outskirts of competitive racing, prompting Leclerc to deliver a stark assessment of their current predicament.

“Unfortunately, we don’t have the race car to fight with the guys in front,” Leclerc explained after the race. He noted, “McLaren always had the same gap on us compared to the beginning of the year. Red Bull did a step from Monza and are at the same level as McLaren. Mercedes now is at the same level as McLaren and Red Bull. And then there’s us.”

The challenges faced by Ferrari are reminiscent of previous difficult seasons. Leclerc reflected on the current campaign, stating, “I wouldn’t describe it as the most difficult. I think every time you don’t fight for wins, it’s difficult.” He recalled the disparity in performance from last season, where Ferrari was competitive in the World Constructors’ Championship, contrasting sharply with the lack of progress seen this year.

Despite the setbacks, Leclerc emphasized that his motivation remains strong. “It takes a lot of energy, but that doesn’t demotivate me. It motivates me, if anything, much more to try and turn the situation around,” he said. The emotional toll of not contending for podium finishes adds to the frustration, particularly in races where multiple issues arise.

As the season progresses, Ferrari currently sits third in the Constructors’ standings, trailing Mercedes by 27 points and leading Red Bull by a narrow eight points. With six rounds remaining, the team faces mounting pressure to improve their performance and regain competitiveness.

Leclerc’s candid remarks about Ferrari’s current standing underline the urgency for the team to address their shortcomings in the remaining races of the season. The drivers’ commitment to pushing for better results remains intact, yet the path to improvement appears challenging as they navigate through the remainder of the 2025 Formula 1 season.