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Ferrari’s Final Stand: Yas Marina Showdown Holds Slim Championship Hope

Harry Bright by Harry Bright
December 5, 2024
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
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Ferrari’s Final Stand: Yas Marina Showdown Holds Slim Championship Hope

Formula One F1 - Qatar Grand Prix - Lusail International Circuit, Lusail, Qatar - December 1, 2024 Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix REUTERS/Jakub Porzycki

For the first time in the hybrid era, Ferrari enters the final round of the season in contention for a championship title. While the odds are stacked against the Scuderia at Yas Marina, Team Principal Fred Vasseur has vowed that Ferrari will give everything in a bid to overcome McLaren’s formidable lead in the Constructors’ Championship.

A long shot but still alive

“It’s a mathematical possibility, but realistically, it’s a steep climb,” Vasseur admitted. “Even if we finish first and second, McLaren can still afford to finish third and fourth—or even worse—and stay ahead. But Ferrari has always embraced a challenge, and this weekend will be no different.”

Ferrari’s resurgence in 2024 has been its strongest since the hybrid era began in 2014. However, the team faces a stern test at Yas Marina, a venue where Ferrari has failed to win in 15 attempts—a dubious record in its storied history. With the Constructors’ Championship at stake, Ferrari aims to add to its 16 titles, the most in Formula 1.

The challenge of Yas Marina

Revised in 2021, Yas Marina offers a faster layout and better overtaking opportunities. The lap combines technical sections in the first sector with high-speed straights and tight corners, demanding both precision and strategy. The track’s two DRS zones and a 1.2-kilometre back straight provide opportunities to gain positions, but its tight final sector under the hotel lights leaves little room for error.

“The margins here are razor-thin,” Vasseur noted. “Safety Cars and red flags are always a threat, and tyre management will play a crucial role in determining the outcome.”

With conditions similar to Qatar, night-time temperature drops will impact tyre performance. Last year’s race proved that a two-stop strategy, starting on Mediums before switching to Hards, was optimal—a crucial factor Ferrari will monitor during the second free practice session under race-like conditions.

Sainz’s farewell and a Leclerc family milestone

The Abu Dhabi GP marks the end of Carlos Sainz’s four-year stint with Ferrari. Sainz, who will join Williams in 2025, departs with an impressive record of four wins, six pole positions, and 24 podiums. “Carlos has been an integral part of this team,” Vasseur said. “We are determined to give him the send-off he deserves.”

For Charles Leclerc, the weekend carries personal significance as his younger brother Arthur makes his Formula 1 debut. Arthur will take over Sainz’s car during the first practice session, making history as the first pair of brothers to compete on track for Ferrari. Both Leclerc brothers will also participate in post-season testing alongside Ferrari development driver Antonio Fuoco.

Prepared for a fight

Ferrari’s preparation for Abu Dhabi has been meticulous, with Vasseur highlighting the importance of qualifying. “While our car tends to perform better in races, starting at the front is critical here,” he said. “The entire team is focused, and we are ready to fight tooth and nail to close the season on a high.”

Ferrari’s gritty determination reflects its DNA, even in the face of long odds. The Scuderia enters Yas Marina 21 points behind McLaren, a deficit that may prove insurmountable but won’t deter the team from giving it their all.

Looking ahead with momentum

While Ferrari’s title hopes are slim, Vasseur emphasized the importance of finishing strong to carry momentum into 2025. “This team thrives on challenges. If we can leave Abu Dhabi knowing we gave everything, we’ll be in a strong position heading into next year.”

The 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix promises to be a thrilling conclusion to a dramatic season, with Ferrari fighting to keep its championship dream alive. Regardless of the outcome, the Scuderia’s passion and determination ensure that the legacy of the prancing horse remains untarnished.

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