Vasseur urges sharp execution at Spa: ‘Maximise from the get-go’

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Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has issued a rallying call ahead of this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix, urging the Scuderia to hit the ground running and extract every ounce of performance from a significant upgrade set to debut at Spa-Francorchamps.

However, Vasseur is keenly aware of the challenges posed by the Sprint format’s condensed sessions and the tight competition in the 2025 season, not to mention any weather drama that might roll over the Ardennes.

Nevertheless, round 13 of the 2025 F1 world championship promises to be a pivotal moment for Ferrari as they aim to capitalize on their latest technical advancements.

New Upgrade and Sprint Weekend Challenges

Ferrari’s preparations for Spa have been intense, with recent tests at Mugello focusing on a new rear suspension design. The development is intended to enhance the car’s balance, allowing the team to lower the ride height and extract additional performance from the ground-effect aerodynamics of the SF-25.

The decision to introduce such a significant update during a sprint weekend – where teams are limited to just one hour of free practice before sprint qualifying – is not without risk, as the schedule leaves little room for fine-tuning, making it essential for Ferrari to execute their setup and strategy with precision.

In that context, Vasseur made it clear Ferrari can’t afford any false starts.

“We have worked hard at the factory to bring an additional upgrade package for the SF-25,” Vasseur confirmed in the team’s race preview.

“Therefore, a point of focus this weekend will be to make sure we maximise its potential from the get-go.

“As always with a Sprint weekend, getting off to a strong start with a smooth free practice session will hold the key to the rest of the weekend,” Vasseur said.

Read also: Ferrari to debut new rear suspension at Belgian Grand Prix

“The margins between the teams are very close at the moment, therefore, every small detail can make the difference, so we’ll stay focused on ourselves to give our best in every phase of the weekend, on a track where the weather could also play its part.”

Whether the gamble pays off or adds to Ferrari’s growing list of “what-ifs” this season will be clear soon enough.

But if Vasseur’s message is heard loud and clear within the Maranello garage, Ferrari fans may yet have reason for optimism as the Scuderia aims to head into the summer break on a high.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.