The Azerbaijan Grand Prix FP2 result for Lewis Hamilton stemmed from adjustments to his braking configuration, as he observes a growing development in Ferrari’s performance throughout the 2025 Formula 1 season.
Although Leclerc initially topped the charts in FP2 preceding the concluding sequence of long runs with increased fuel loads, Hamilton gained from his teammate’s aerodynamic assistance, securing the top spot during his ultimate timed lap of the session.
Hamilton had been positioned 13th during FP1, a session he characterized as “disorganized” due to a deficiency in braking assurance – an unfavorable predicament considering the abundance of 90-degree turns.
He conveyed that the brakes felt “ideal” in the second Friday session yet aimed to temper expectations, recognizing it was merely a practice session.
“I’d suggest that P1 was somewhat disorganized; this track demands substantial confidence in braking, and I encountered certain brake-related issues,” Hamilton articulated following FP2.
“Each circuit represents my initial experience driving the Ferrari at that location, thus adapting to it poses a challenge. We implemented modifications heading into P2, and the brakes ultimately functioned perfectly.
“I could genuinely leverage a significant benefit by improving my braking. I’m genuinely pleased to witness the advancement, demonstrating the direction our team has undertaken. I’m exceptionally thankful for the collective patience and relentless effort, as we’re genuinely beginning to observe tangible progress.”
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Photo by: Alexander Nemenov / AFP via Getty Images
Leclerc, contrarily, expressed a sentiment that he could have extracted greater performance from himself during the practice runs. While he was optimistic regarding Ferrari’s current form, he assessed McLaren as being “in a league of their own,” in spite of the Woking-based team’s misfortunes during the Friday sessions.
The Monegasque driver, who has clinched the most recent four pole positions obtainable in Baku, implied that his aspirations for triumph in the Azerbaijani capital might necessitate a period of postponement.
“It was satisfactory. I believe there exists considerably more potential, particularly from my own efforts. I performed admirably today, and generally, we appear to be quite formidable,” Leclerc commented.
“Thus, it’s encouraging. However – and this is a significant caveat – McLaren seems to operate at an entirely different level, literally. And I anticipate that individuals will be markedly surprised tomorrow, considering Lando’s inability to finalize certain laps that were exceedingly remarkable.
“I have reservations about our capacity to contend with them. Nevertheless, in comparison to the other competitors, it appears we occupy a favorable position.
“I don’t foresee a contest for victory presently, but one should never assert never. In 2021, as well as numerous qualifying sessions here, I felt it improbable. Ultimately, we somewhat succeeded. Therefore, I’ll sustain optimistic expectations, despite the situation appearing improbable.”
Ferrari Team Principal Frédéric Vasseur walks in the paddock
Photo by: Kym Illman / Getty Images
Ferrari’s team director, Frederic Vasseur, was similarly content with his team’s initial velocity in Baku, though, mirroring Leclerc’s sentiments, highlighted McLaren’s ambiguous ultimate tempo as the criterion. He additionally implied that, in contrast to the Mercedes-powered vehicles, Ferrari had amplified its output during FP2.
“Indulging in aspirations is rarely beneficial. We must concentrate on our endeavors. The margins are exceedingly narrow. McLaren was unable to finalize a rapid lap, yet they demonstrated considerable velocity,” Vasseur conveyed to Sky Sports Italia.
“Mercedes likely refrained from exploiting the engine’s maximum capacity, indicating that tomorrow’s scenario will emulate this morning’s observations, characterized by universal proximity.
“The race simulation also bears significance. We executed merely 4-5 laps, yet it proceeded swimmingly. We must orient ourselves internally and optimize our existing resources. It constituted a productive Friday, though we lack awareness of the other teams’ fuel reserves and remain oblivious to their genuine potential.”
