Ferrari emerged from the Bahrain Grand Prix with renewed optimism, as Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton secured P4 and P5, respectively, while unveiling a potent upgrade that could reshape their 2025 Formula 1 campaign.

Despite a poorly timed safety car derailing their strategy, Ferrari’s new floor upgrade and Hamilton’s adaptation to the SF25’s unique driving demands showcased a car capable of challenging the front-runners.

Data from Planet F1 highlighted Ferrari’s blistering mid-race pace on medium tires, with Leclerc and Hamilton nearly matching McLaren’s Oscar Piastri.

As Hamilton discovers the “secret” to unlocking his Ferrari’s potential, the Scuderia’s prospects for the season look brighter, signaling a potential resurgence in the fight against McLaren and Red Bull.

The Bahrain Grand Prix presented Ferrari with a strategic dilemma when a safety car appeared with 25 laps remaining. Having run medium tires twice, the team faced a choice: switch to softs for speed but risk grip loss, or opt for hards to ensure durability. Ferrari chose the hards, a decision that mirrored Red Bull’s struggles, as Max Verstappen languished behind Haas’ Esteban Ocon on the same compound. The hard tires’ lack of grip stifled Ferrari’s challenge against McLaren’s Piastri and Lando Norris, who capitalized on medium tires to secure P1 and P3. However, Leclerc and Hamilton’s P4 and P5 finishes were respectable given the circumstances, with many believing a later safety car or no intervention could have seen them opt for softs and climb higher.

Ferrari’s true strength shone in the race’s middle stint, where Leclerc and Hamilton exploited the medium tires to carve through the field. Planet F1’s data revealed that between laps 19 and 31, Leclerc posted the fastest average lap time, with Hamilton close behind, sandwiching Piastri. This pace, nearly matching the race leader in clean air, underscored the SF25’s potential on softer compounds. Norris, by contrast, trailed Leclerc by four-tenths on average, highlighting Ferrari’s edge. The team’s major floor upgrade, debuted in Bahrain, improved balance and stability under high fuel loads, transforming the SF25 into a formidable package despite Hamilton’s P9 qualifying.

Hamilton’s post-race comments to Sky F1 revealed a pivotal moment in his Ferrari journey. After years with Mercedes, the seven-time champion admitted to grappling with the SF25’s distinct demands, including unfamiliar engine braking and a radically different driving style. “I’m slowly getting it into my head,” Hamilton said, signaling his growing confidence in mastering the car. His climb from P9 to P5, coupled with Leclerc’s strong showing, suggests Ferrari has found a setup that suits both drivers. Fans on X buzzed with excitement, one post noting, “Lewis unlocking Ferrari’s speed is huge—watch out, McLaren!”

Ferrari’s Bahrain performance, though not a podium, marks a turning point. The SF25’s upgraded floor and the team’s pace on medium tires indicate they’re closing the gap to McLaren, who dominated with Piastri’s win. With Red Bull faltering, Ferrari’s consistency could position them as championship contenders. As Hamilton adapts and Leclerc delivers, the Scuderia’s strategic decisions in upcoming races, like the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, will be crucial. For now, Ferrari’s Bahrain data and Hamilton’s breakthrough have ignited hope that 2025 could be the year they challenge for the top step.