Presented as the favorite in Hungary, Ferrari prefers to remain cautious. Frédéric Vasseur believes that the potential of the SF-26 will not be enough to guarantee success.
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After two very convincing weekends at Silverstone and Spa-Francorchamps, Ferrari arrives at the Hungarian Grand Prix with the status of favorite.
The characteristics of the Hungaroring indeed seem perfectly suited to the SF-26, whose chassis is considered one of the best on the grid.
But Frédéric Vasseur refuses to draw conclusions even before the first practice sessions.
A favorable circuit… on paper
The narrow and winding layout of the Hungaroring is traditionally favorable to single-seaters performing well in slow corners.
Moreover, the low importance of engine power could allow Ferrari to limit the top speed deficit of its power unit compared to Mercedes.
The Scuderia also remains on two excellent weekends, with a victory followed by a second place for Charles Leclerc, while Lewis Hamilton finished third then fourth.
Despite this favorable context, Vasseur prefers to remain cautious.
“We arrive in Budapest after two encouraging weekends, during which we managed to maximize our result thanks to formidable teamwork.”
No favorite before the track
The Ferrari boss reminds that every circuit holds its share of surprises.
“This gives us confidence, but we also know that each Grand Prix presents its own challenges.”
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Even if the characteristics of the Hungaroring seem to suit the SF-26, he refuses to see it as a guarantee of success.
“On paper, the Hungaroring may better suit the characteristics of our car, but that guarantees absolutely nothing.”
Execution will be key
For Vasseur, the difference will primarily be made by the quality of the work done throughout the weekend.
“As always, it’s the execution that will make the difference.”
The Frenchman insists on several essential elements.
“We will have to approach this weekend with the same concentration, the same discipline and the same attention to detail as in the last two races.”
Continue on the same momentum
The Scuderia director welcomes the current state of mind within the team.
“We have a united group, two extremely motivated drivers and we know we can count on the support of all our tifosi.”
The objective is now to continue this positive momentum.
“We want to continue in this direction, working effectively from Friday’s free practice sessions to put ourselves in the best possible conditions for qualifying and the race.”
Despite favorable predictions, Ferrari therefore refuses any excess of confidence. For Vasseur, only perfect execution will allow the Scuderia to transform its theoretical advantage into a concrete result at the Hungaroring.
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