Ferrari Drivers 'Seem Defeated' After Disappointing Austin Results

Former Sky Sports commentator Danica Patrick observed that both Ferrari drivers, Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, appeared 'defeated' following yet another underwhelming performance in Austin. Their frustration was palpable in post-race interviews, hinting at a desire to move past the current season and look ahead.

Why it matters:

Ferrari's struggles this season, particularly the noticeable drop in performance post-summer break, are significantly impacting their drivers' morale and the team's standing in the Constructors' Championship. A consistent lack of pace and reliability is undermining their championship ambitions and raising questions about their direction for the upcoming seasons.

The Details:

• Driver Frustration: Danica Patrick, reflecting on Leclerc and Hamilton's 8th and 10th place finishes in Friday's Sprint Qualifying, noted that both drivers 'seem defeated.' Their interviews conveyed 'total frustration,' suggesting a readiness for the season to conclude.
• Hamilton's Disappointment: Patrick highlighted Lewis Hamilton's situation, suggesting that his move to Ferrari, anticipated to spark improvement, has instead led to significant disappointment, further compounded by the team's ongoing struggles.
• Post-Summer Slump: Ferrari's performance has drastically declined since the summer break, with the team scoring the fewest points among top contenders. This slump has been particularly damaging to their championship aspirations.
• Constructors' Standings: The Maranello outfit lost second place in the Constructors' standings to Mercedes in Baku and now faces the risk of losing third place to a resurgent Red Bull, who have shown increased competitiveness with recent updates.
• New Season Hopes: Both drivers are reportedly looking forward to the off-season, hoping for a fresh start with a clean slate and new regulations to bring about a significant turnaround in their fortunes.

What's next:

Ferrari's current form necessitates a deep dive into their strategy and car development. The team will be under immense pressure to regroup during the off-season and introduce substantial changes to their car for the next year. Their ability to address the 'disappearing pace' and improve reliability will be crucial for regaining competitiveness and restoring driver confidence.