On Race Day at the Bahrain Grand Prix, Sergio Perez of Red Bull Racing showcased his skills in the RB20 car. The event marked the beginning of the 2024 season of the Formula 1 World Championship. Ferrari’s Formula 1 team principal, Fred Vasseur, believes the race demonstrated a significant improvement for the team compared to the previous year, especially in reducing the gap to Red Bull.
Red Bull continued their dominance from the previous season, with Max Verstappen securing a commanding victory, closely followed by his teammate Sergio Perez in a one-two finish. However, while Carlos Sainz finished third, he was 25 seconds behind Verstappen, a considerable improvement from the previous Bahrain GP where he was 48 seconds behind.
Vasseur acknowledges that Red Bull is currently in a dominant position to retain both championships. However, he emphasizes that the reduced gap between Ferrari and Red Bull is a positive sign of progress for the team. Vasseur also finds encouragement in Charles Leclerc’s fourth-place finish, despite issues with the car’s brake temperatures.
Reflecting on the contrasting performances within the Ferrari team, Vasseur admits to having mixed feelings after the race. On one hand, he highlights the team’s achievement of pole position with Leclerc’s fastest lap in qualifying. Additionally, he notes that Ferrari managed to reduce 50% of the gap to Red Bull during the race compared to the previous year when the gap was significantly larger.
However, Vasseur also acknowledges that there were several issues throughout the weekend that need to be addressed, especially regarding Charles’ car brakes. Despite these challenges, Vasseur praises Leclerc’s performance and the team’s ability to strategically navigate the race and secure fourth place.
Initially, Vasseur admits he was not optimistic when observing the situation during the first part of the race. He explains that the brake issue caused a significant temperature difference between the left and right sides of the car, resulting in braking difficulties and locking. However, by the end of the race, the situation improved when Leclerc was in the wake of another car.
Overall, Vasseur acknowledges the progress made by Ferrari in reducing the gap to Red Bull, but emphasizes the need to address the issues faced during the weekend to continue improving.
Ferrari embarked on a complete overhaul of their 2024 competitor, the SF-24, in an attempt to create a more adaptable base that would enhance the team’s performance during races.
“This is also a conflicting feeling. A year ago, I believe we were at 80-90% of our potential in races, but today we have only reduced 50% of the difference,” emphasized Vasseur.
“However, our goal is not to be just 40% behind.”
Addressing the issues related to wind sensitivity that plagued their previous model, Vasseur is confident that Ferrari is now better positioned to pursue an ambitious development plan.
“Comparing to last year and the progress we have made throughout the season, the fact that we have been able to compete with them in the final part of the season gives us a great opportunity,” he continued.
“The car also provides a much more solid foundation for development this year. It is easier for the drivers to understand their weaknesses and areas for improvement. Last year, it was much more challenging to obtain valuable information from the car.”
Vasseur also rejected the idea that Ferrari is solely focused on reducing the gap to Red Bull, emphasizing the importance of evaluating their performance in different track configurations.
First of all, my focus is not on Red Bull. I am focused on maximizing our own potential with what we have,” he stated.
“This weekend was not a fresh start for us, as we encountered several minor issues during yesterday’s qualifying and today’s race.
“We must also consider that Jeddah will present a completely different challenge with its layout and track surface.
“We have a better understanding of the overall situation after Melbourne, I believe. It will be difficult to have a clear picture of the championship before that.”
© 2024
Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen achieved an impressive victory at the Monaco Grand Prix on Sunday. Verstappen, who competes for the Red Bull Racing team, led the race from start to finish, surpassing his rivals to secure the first position on the podium. This victory marks the third consecutive win for the Dutch driver this season, solidifying his position as one of the top competitors in the championship.
The race in Monaco was thrilling from the start, with Verstappen starting in pole position. He maintained the lead throughout the race, despite constant pressure from his competitors. Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton finished in second place, followed by Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc in third. Verstappen demonstrated skill and determination, staying ahead of the pack and crossing the finish line in first place.
This victory is particularly significant for Verstappen and his team, as the Monaco Grand Prix is considered one of the most prestigious and challenging races on the Formula 1 calendar. The narrow and twisty track tests the skill of the drivers and offers few opportunities for overtaking. However, Verstappen managed to overcome these obstacles and secure the win, increasing his lead in the championship.
With this victory, Verstappen now leads the drivers’ championship, with a comfortable advantage over Hamilton. His consistency and impressive performance this season position him as one of the main contenders for the world title. Verstappen is also gaining recognition as one of the rising stars of Formula 1, with his skill and talent being acknowledged worldwide.
The next race of the Formula 1 season will be the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, which will take place in a few weeks. Verstappen and his team are confident they can continue their success and achieve more victories. With the season underway, Formula 1 fans are eager to see how the championship battle will unfold and if Verstappen can maintain his advantage.
Verstappen’s victory at the Monaco Grand Prix is a significant milestone in his career and a testament to his talent as a Formula 1 driver. With his relentless determination and exceptional skill, he is establishing himself as one of the best drivers of today. Formula 1 fans certainly have much to look forward to in this exciting season.
