Leclerc shines and responds to Hamilton before the Spanish GP
Barcelona, June 1, 2025 – The 2025 Spanish Grand Prix opened with an intense competition atmosphere, and Charles Leclerc was the undisputed protagonist, not only on the track but also outside, with a decisive response to teammate Lewis Hamilton. Despite the seasonal difficulties, Ferrari found a lighthouse of hope in Leclerc, while Hamilton still seems far from finding the rhythm with the SF-25.
The qualifications of the Spanish GP have seen an overwhelming domain of McLaren, with Oscar Piastri who won the pole position with a time of 1: 11,546, followed by his partner Lando Norris. Leclerc, who started from the seventh position, has shown an extraordinary determination in the race, conquering a podium that has rekindled the hopes of the cavallino fans. The third place, confirmed after an investigation for a contact with Max Verstappen, was the result of a bold strategy and impeccable management of the tires, as underlined by Monegasco: “We have chosen to save a train of tires in qualifying, and this move allowed us to be competitive in the race”.
Hamilton, on the other hand, lived a complicated weekend, closing in sixth place and complaining about a “inguidable” car in free practice. His difficulties also emerged in the radio teams, where he showed frustration due to the lack of feeling with the SF-25. Leclerc, in a pre-gara interview, responded elegantly but firmly to Hamilton’s criticism on Ferrari’s competitiveness: “We work together to improve the car. I believe in the project and I know that we can unlock the potential”. This declaration has silent the speculations on internal tensions, demonstrating Leclerc’s leadership in the team.
The Spanish GP highlighted the limits of Ferrari, still far from McLaren (-197 points in the manufacturers) and unable to compete for the victory. However, Leclerc made the most of the opportunities, such as the post-Safety Car chaos, where he exceeded Verstappen, penalized by 10 seconds for contact with George Russell. This episode generated controversy, but the FIA has exonerated Leclerc, consolidating its podium.
The expectations for Ferrari were high after the introduction of the technique directive on flexible wings, but the SF-25 has not yet filled the gap with rivals. Despite this, Leclerc remains optimistic: “We do not give up. Each race is an opportunity to learn and approach us at the top”. Hamilton, on the other hand, has yet to find his place in Maranello, with performances that do not reflect his seven -time world champion status.
The Spanish Grand Prix has confirmed that Leclerc is Ferrari’s soul this season. His determination and talent have silenced doubts, while Hamilton is called to answer on the track. With the still long world championship, Barcelona could be the turning point for the Cavallino.
