An important change in the fight for third place in the 2021 Formula 1 Constructor Standings behind behind Mercedes and Red Bull Racing. The total of 18 points scored by the Maranello team with the fifth and sixth place in the Mexican Grand Prix (as compared to only one point of Lando Norris, tenth at the end of the race) allowed the Italian side to overtake Mclaren in the standings, now holding a lead of 13.5 points in view of the final sprint of this championship in Brazil and the Middle East.
The Maranello team had a solid race despite failing to overtake Pierre Gasly’s AlphaTauri in the battle for fourth place, but in the end it is a result that makes the team smile and gives confidence in its growth path, especially in terms of the 2022 Formula One season.
“Today was a good race, especially for the championship, because we gained 17 points on Mclaren and we now have an advantage of 13.5 points – commented Mattia Binotto at the end of the 2021 Mexican Grand Prix – As we have always said, the goal is third place and we finally got it here in Mexico. For three races we have always been ahead of McLaren, also in terms of race performance: this gives us hope for the end of the season. We will try to consolidate in Brazil”. – he added.
“Before arriving in Mexico, I was hoping this was a track where we would be better, but it wasn’t like that in qualifying. In the race, however, we went well: we tried in every way to pass Gasly, but we didn’t succeed. The result, however, is useful – added the Ferrari team principal – The team worked well, from pit stops to strategy. We stopped Charles Leclerc early to force Gasly to stop too while keeping Carlos Sainz out, then trying everything possible. Even reversing positions at the end. The team worked well, the drivers were collaborative. In the end, a positive race if we look at the points.” – the Ferrari boss explained.
Mattia Binotto then drew up a guideline for this season finale: “In Mexico I didn’t get it right, so in Brazil I am going to say we won’t do well. Maybe it goes better – he joked – It will be a tiring hat-trick of events, given that after Interlagos we will fly to Qatar. It’s tiring for the team, all the more so at this point of the year. Being away from home for a long time, with all the Covid protocols currently in force, is certainly stressful and I want to thank the guys here too. As for the car, we need to anticipate the times a lot. The Brazilian Grand Prix, for example, has already been prepared in recent weeks” – the Ferrari boss concluded.
