Ferrari struggles at Austrian Grand Prix as Hamilton finishes fifth, Leclerc eighth

Ferrari failed to convert strong qualifying positions into race points at the Austrian Grand Prix. Lewis Hamilton finished fifth and Charles Leclerc dropped to eighth after starting higher up the grid. Both drivers cited excessive tire wear and handling issues in the extreme heat. Hamilton said, "The car didn't cooperate with any tyre set, it was a very, very difficult race, really demanding," while Leclerc added, "I was sliding and my rear tyres were overheating. The car is very sensitive; if you miss the right window you pay the price."

Team principal Fred Vasseur acknowledged the poor performance and indicated the team will analyse the 71 laps to improve before the next race in Britain. In qualifying, Mercedes driver George Russell claimed pole position, with Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton completing the front row, while Max Verstappen crashed and missed the session.

Ferrari hopes to adjust setup and strategy ahead of the upcoming British Grand Prix, aiming to return to competitiveness.