Jérôme d’Ambrosio explains: This is how Ferrari stays in the race for the title

The Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is a special venue for the Ferrari team, as a glance at the record books shows: the Scuderia from Maranello has already contested 69 Grand Prix races at the legendary Belgian circuit and won 18 of them. Lewis Hamilton has already triumphed five times on the Ardennes rollercoaster, whilst his team-mate Charles Leclerc celebrated his first Grand Prix victory on the circuit – which is just under seven kilometres long – in 2019.

And for deputy team principal Jérôme D’Ambrosio, too, Spa is a special round of the World Championship – after all, it is his home race. He says: “It’s always a pleasure for me to return to Spa. And that’s not just because of my Belgian heritage, but also because it’s one of the most famous and beautiful circuits on the World Championship calendar.”

“Belgium has a great passion for motorsport, and many Ferrari fans make their way to the circuit every year. Furthermore, the circuit holds a special place in Ferrari’s history: The Cavallino Rampante made its racing debut here at the 1932 Spa 24 Hours with a one-two finish, and Francorchamps was home to one of Ferrari’s first and most important importers, Garage Francorchamps. This heritage makes racing here with Ferrari a truly special experience,” enthuses the former Grand Prix driver.

Focus on further development

Added to this is the fine form of the iconic Italian team, which has been among the title contenders ever since Charles Leclerc’s victory at the recent race at Silverstone. D’Ambrosio explains proudly: “The atmosphere in the team is naturally good, and everyone is very focused on their work. The victories in Barcelona and Silverstone are proof of the progress we’ve made as a team, both on the track and at the factory in Maranello. And they’re the result of hard work.”

However, the 40-year-old Belgian also warns: “We mustn’t forget that further development is particularly important this year. That’s why we’re working hard to improve our car even further.” The 20-time Grand Prix starter, who also heads up Ferrari’s junior programme, the ‘Ferrari Driver Academy’, knows what matters. “The key to success lies in keeping your feet on the ground and being aware that every race can unfold differently.”

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“We’re up against very strong rivals, so we approach every race and every session with the same mindset – we want to make the best of every situation. With these cars, small details can make a big difference, and everyone’s attention to detail in every area is crucial. We’re continuing to work on both fronts: we’re getting the most out of the overall package on the track whilst at the same time further developing the car in Maranello,” explains the GP veteran.