Team Principal of the Ferrari Formula 1 team, Frederic Vasseur believes that the promising start of the team in the 2024 season is significant as it establishes a solid foundation for future progress.
Vasseur’s inaugural season in charge last year was compromised from the start, as Ferrari discovered that their car was vulnerable to changes in wind direction.
Despite implementing a concept change mid-season that improved their performance, Ferrari continued to struggle with the inconsistencies of their initial package.
As a result, the Italian team decided to completely overhaul their SF-24 car to address the limitations of its predecessor and produce a more adaptable car.
Ferrari achieved their goal and emerged as the most credible challenger to Red Bull, with Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc securing podiums in the first two races.
However, with Max Verstappen maintaining a significant lead, Vasseur acknowledges that it will be challenging to reduce the gap as teams seek marginal improvements.
When asked if Ferrari planned any upgrades to help reduce the deficit to Red Bull, Vasseur replied: “We have upgrades in progress, but I’m sure we’re not the only ones.
“If we look at last year, McLaren made substantial progress throughout the season, but I believe it was more about unlocking their potential early on rather than relying solely on upgrades. We have also made improvements, although not half a second. This indicates that we have reached a point with this car and the current regulations where performance is converging and the rate of development is slower.
“That’s why it’s crucial for us to be competitive from the start, to accumulate valuable points. Last year, we had a bad start, but now I’m not mainly focused on the championship. Overall, we have already scored about 45 points, while last year, after three races, we had only 25. A good start is essential.”
However, Vasseur acknowledges that Ferrari’s stronger foundation will allow the team to focus on improving performance compared to last year’s problem-solving. The Frenchman highlighted Oliver Bearman’s impressive seventh place in Jeddah, replacing the ill Carlos Sainz, as evidence of the improved drivability of the Ferrari car in 2024. “I believe the car is easier to drive now, although I don’t want to imply that this has any influence on Ollie’s performance. However, this easier drivability provides a solid foundation for development, because drivers can better understand the car and identify areas for improvement,” he explained. “Overall, this is a step forward for us.”
Although Vasseur did not disclose when Ferrari will introduce the first updates to their SF-24, Leclerc confirmed that substantial developments will not arrive in Australia. “I don’t expect many additions in Melbourne,” he stated. “So, without major changes, I believe we are doing a commendable job of maximizing our current package. That’s what we have. I believe we will have to wait and see the impact of the new parts on the car and how they bring us closer to Red Bull.”
© 2024
Dramatic events unfolded during this weekend’s Formula 1 race, leaving fans in shock. Star driver Max Verstappen suffered a horrific accident that resulted in his car catching fire. Fortunately, he managed to escape unscathed, but his team is concerned about the extent of the damage to the vehicle. This unexpected incident brought an exciting twist to the competition.
Meanwhile, current world champion Lewis Hamilton seized the opportunity to take the lead in the race. With his exceptional skill and relentless determination, he showed why he is considered one of the greatest drivers of all time. Hamilton is determined to maintain his position at the top and is willing to face any challenges that come his way.
In addition, a new team of drivers is attracting attention. The duo of Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc is showing impressive performance, challenging the favorites and securing prominent positions. These young talents are ready to make history and are becoming well-known names in the world of Formula 1.
As fans eagerly await the next race, speculations about the future of the competition are arising. Rumors suggest possible changes to the rules and regulations, which could significantly impact the balance of power among the teams. Fans are divided on these potential changes, but all agree that the excitement and adrenaline of Formula 1 are irreplaceable.
With so many thrilling and surprising events, this year’s Formula 1 season promises to be one of the most exciting yet. Fans cannot afford to miss a second of this intense competition. Stay tuned for more updates and exclusive information about Formula 1.
