Vasseur explains Ferrari’s tyre struggles in Brazil

Ferrari endured a difficult Sao Paulo Grand Prix at Interlagos, with Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton finishing eighth and ninth respectively, as tyre temperature issues severely hampered their weekend. Both drivers faced 10-place grid penalties for new power unit elements, further compounded by an engine issue for Hamilton in FP3 that forced additional changes and consigned him to a P20 start, while Leclerc dropped to P14. Despite a brilliant start that saw Hamilton gain 11 places on the opening lap, both drivers struggled to keep their tyres in the correct operating window throughout changing conditions. An aggressive early switch to slick tyres for Hamilton yielded mixed results, and a late penalty for Leclerc after contact with Liam Lawson sealed a frustrating outing. Team Principal Fred Vasseur emphasized that tyre management issues can overshadow car performance by magnitudes greater than standard upgrades. With Mercedes clinching the 2026 Constructors' Championship in Brazil, Ferrari's wait for a title since 2008 continues. While Vasseur acknowledged the team's ongoing struggles with top speed and tyre temperatures, he praised the team's development efforts and congratulated Mercedes on their championship success.