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Jacques Villeneuve points out one ‘simple’ change Ferrari could make to aid Lewis Hamilton

Originally posted on HITC | By Ben Evans | Last updated Sep 1, 2025 10:27 AM ET

Ferrari are still working to fix the issues that have troubled Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc throughout the season.

The SF-25 was billed as the car that could finally bring an end to Ferrari’s title drought.

Fred Vasseur’s side finished just behind McLaren in 2024, and the arrival of Hamilton was expected to be the final piece of the puzzle.

Leclerc had ended last year in outstanding form, but things have not gone according to plan this time around.

Still chasing their first win of 2025, it would not be a shock if Ferrari remain winless until next year’s regulation changes, especially with McLaren looking so strong.

Vasseur’s new multi-year contract with Ferrari will see him lead the team into a new era. However, he will undoubtedly face numerous questions regarding his strategy to elevate the Scuderia to a leading position in the sport.

Jacques Villeneuve thinks there is a straightforward answer to what has been holding Hamilton and Leclerc back this season.

Jacques Villeneuve suggests changing race engineers for Hamilton and Leclerc

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During an appearance on Sky Sports F1 (30/8 10:35 am) at the start of FP3, Villeneuve was asked what three changes he would make at Ferrari to help turn their season around.

He responded: “Change the two engineers. Find engineers who actually gel with the drivers and give them the freedom to work with the drivers. Simple.”

David Croft, lead commentator, followed up: “So, don’t interfere so much, but get the right people in the right place.”

The former F1 world champion went on: “Yeah, let the couple work together, don’t have an outside third influence directing the two cars to try and keep them the same.

“No, let them work, let them do what they’re supposed to be doing,” to which Croft replied: “And then after that?”

“Hope and pray, I guess,” Villeneuve suggested.

Who are Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc’s current Ferrari race engineers?

The role of race engineers for both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc has come under increased scrutiny this season.

Both drivers have been open about their frustrations over the radio, with the issues surrounding their cars adding to the pressure.

Hamilton is paired with Riccardo Adami, having moved on from his long-standing partnership with Peter Bonnington at Mercedes. Leclerc, meanwhile, works with Bryan Bozzi.

Adami was recommended to Hamilton by Sebastian Vettel, who had previously worked with him during his own time at Ferrari. Despite that endorsement, the connection has not seemed as strong as what Hamilton had with Bonnington.

Leclerc’s relationship with Bozzi has also been questioned since Bozzi took over from Xavi Marcos last year. Reports have suggested there may be tension between them.

Ferrari have made internal adjustments in an effort to support both drivers better. However, Villeneuve now believes a different strategy is needed.

He has stated that internal processes still need improvement at Ferrari and says it is Vasseur’s responsibility to address these problems promptly.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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