While most leading Formula 1 teams are set to introduce substantial car upgrades at Imola, Ferrari's major development package may not arrive until the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona.
The Italian squad's 2025 campaign has been underwhelming so far, with tensions boiling over in Miami when Lewis Hamilton vented his frustrations on the radio.
His subsequent media interactions also raised eyebrows, prompting former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher to comment to Sky Deutschland: "Behaviour like that naturally strains the relationship."
Team principal Frederic Vasseur, however, has consistently downplayed any and all controversies, including recent frustrations from Charles Leclerc. "I completely understand the frustration," Vasseur told motorsport-total.com. "They are champions and they want to win."
Addressing Hamilton specifically, Vasseur said: "I don't care that Lewis talks to the media. What is important is that there is no misunderstanding between us as a team.
"He can trust me, I can trust him - just like Charles. We talked and after that everything became much calmer."
Despite these assurances, Ferrari's on-track struggles may persist for the next two races at least, as the 2025 car is expected to remain largely unchanged for both Imola and Monaco.
According to Sky Italia, Ferrari has pinpointed the car's primary issue after six races: "The limitations of the rear of the car."
The report also notes: "The potential and the hidden load that Vasseur has been talking about for some time is yet to be found. Precisely for this reason, it was necessary to take cover and the development programme has changed."
While rivals like Red Bull and Mercedes will debut significant updates at Imola, Ferrari's changes will be minimal, with "only small new details hidden from most."
Sky Italia adds: "As with everyone in Spain, they will then have to adapt with a front wing compliant with the new FIA rules. In the meantime, in Maranello, they are working on a revised rear suspension."
