Leclerc Seeks to Silence Criticism at Ferrari After Podium Finish at US GP

Leclerc Seeks to Silence Rumors with Podium Finish at US GP

Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc hopes his podium finish at the United States Grand Prix will silence speculation about the future of Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur. Ferrari’s season has been disappointing, with no grand prix victories and only six podium finishes in 19 races this year. The race weekend in Austin began amid rumors that Vasseur could be replaced by former Red Bull team boss Christian Horner next year, something that Lewis Hamilton called “a distraction”. On Friday, in Washington D.C., Ferrari CEO John Elkann felt the need to reiterate his support for his team principal, despite having signed Vasseur to a new contract less than three months ago. Leclerc, speaking on Sunday night, said that Ferrari could be proud to have secured a podium amid the rumors and speculation.

Charles Leclerc took third place, behind winner Max Verstappen and runner-up Lando Norris. The US Grand Prix is his sixth podium of the season.

Peter Fox/Getty Images

The second part of the season hasn’t been easy, with unfounded noise and rumors surrounding the team. I think that showing that in those types of situations we can stay focused on the work and be rewarded with a podium is a very pleasant feeling.

Charles Leclerc

Leclerc also commented on the challenges they faced during the weekend, including a gearbox issue that cost them practice time.

I am very happy. I am very happy because obviously we had the gearbox problem [during Friday practice], which cost us a few laps, which meant that we were a bit on the defensive trying to recover in the sprint qualifying and the sprint race.

Charles Leclerc

Despite the podium boost, Leclerc doubts that a victory in the last five races of 2025 will be possible.

I still want to believe that we can win a race before the end of the season, but then again, I think we have to be realistic about our situation. And I don’t think we have the car to do it. I think this weekend has been the perfect weekend for the team.

Charles Leclerc

Leclerc concluded by saying that he would be surprised if they achieve something better by the end of the year, and that they will focus on each race to see what can be done. Similarly, Lewis Hamilton said that the performance is “in the right direction”, but the team needs more consistency.

I definitely feel better in the car. And I will definitely immerse myself in the coming days, I will try to figure out how we can get more out of the car. Put the car in a slightly better place, but overall, pretty decent. The team did a great job today.

Lewis Hamilton

Hamilton added that the goal is to secure second place in the constructors’ championship.