F1, Ferrari: the problem everyone would like to have

Ferrari faced several problems in the last Formula 1 racing season. Without getting lost in too much chatter, let’s briefly summarize. It started with the aerodynamic update package brought for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at the Imola circuit, where the Maranello team anticipated the competition by presenting the first evolution of the SF-24 single-seater. This involved the reversed sidepods in Red Bull style, known technically as “shark inlet,” which were designed to free up cubic centimeters in the undercut area, enhance the outwash effect, increase aerodynamic efficiency, and generally create a fluid mass directed toward the rear to support performance.

We cannot say that this aerodynamic update was wrong. However, in practice, the significant advantages estimated on paper largely remained unrealized. Then came the Spanish Grand Prix. At the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona, a new floor was unveiled, a major component intended to change the course of the championship. And indeed, it did, but in a negative way. A floor developed under misleading conditions compromised the SF-24’s performance for at least six races. Finally, we arrive at Monza, the Italian Grand Prix, where the right move was finally made.

After an initial correction in the Hungarian Grand Prix at the Hungaroring circuit, a “patch” to the floor to remain decent for the Hungarian race, in the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, the key element for an F1 car was completely new. There were several modifications across all its areas: the inlet, sharp edges, coke bottle zone, diffuser, Venturi channels, and keel in general. As if by magic, the SF-24 single-seater regained competitiveness, even winning its home race with Charles Leclerc in front of the enthusiastic Tifosi. Unfortunately, the Maranello team then lost the race victory in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix at the Baku City Circuit due to a late pit call for the Monegasque driver but dominated in the United States with a historic one-two finish at the Circuit of the Americas, where Ferrari “kicked the stars and stripes” competition.

The success was repeated by Carlos Sainz in the Mexico City Grand Prix the following week. In the last four races, there were only podium finishes, despite the potential to fight at the top being present. The second half of the 2024 Formula 1 world championship showed clear progress, with Ferrari even coming close to winning the Constructors’ title, in the end losing by just 14 points to the Woking-based team. The management of aerodynamic updates made a significant difference, crushing Ferrari’s ambitions, while McLaren, perfect in all its updates, made the winning move to secure a trophy they had not seen since 1998.

It’s December, and Christmas is just a few days away. Nonetheless, the Maranello factory is not shutting down. On the contrary, work continues tirelessly. Efforts are being poured into giving credibility to project 677, from which the car likely to be named the SF-25 will emerge for the upcoming Formula 1 season. A car aiming for revenge, driven by the desire to finally erase that bothersome zero in the championship victory column. A drought that has gone on for far too long and must somehow be stopped. Among the tools available to achieve this goal will be Lewis Hamilton.

Let’s talk about the most highly regarded Formula 1 driver in history. Although he will turn 40 in a few weeks, his talent remains intact. In recent days, we highlighted a detail regarding his professionalism. From what we have learned, the British driver has never been too inclined to share his most intimate feedback on the car he drives. For this reason, he has always set boundaries to ensure that his teammate could not benefit from the precise and effective insights derived from his understanding of the car. This is something that cannot be considered wrong.

Otherwise, his availability will be complete. It could not be otherwise. Within this matter, one very evident fact must be noted. A great champion has one single desire: to win. That is why being beaten by someone sharing the same garage is unacceptable to the mindset of a true standout. Again, this is an obvious point that must, of course, be managed. Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur does not see it as a problem, emphasizing that Lewis Hamilton wants to win, just like Charles Leclerc and himself. For this reason, he sees no inconsistencies in the future goals of the Scuderia.

Moreover, he asserts that the strength of an F1 team lies in a shared sense of purpose, referring to Red Bull, which always focuses on a single driver. According to the French manager, it is about mutual emulation, fostering consistency that pushes the team upward. Always and in every aspect. Not only in the Constructors’ Championship, since healthy competition between two drivers pushes both to give their utmost. This is his philosophy on the matter. In short, internal competition is crucial for nurturing desired ambitions. On this subject, Fred Vasseur alludes to the situation between Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz.

Tensions that have not destroyed their mutual respect, even though more than one misunderstanding has occurred. What the Frenchman calls a “pleasant problem” is undoubtedly beneficial if handled correctly. Ferrari has two exceptional drivers. Without a doubt, the strongest pairing on the grid. If these are the challenges, they are welcome. Would it perhaps be better to have less quality? Who would prefer that? The more arrows you have in your quiver, the better it is. Managing such a situation is possible. It is simply a matter of being clear from the outset and rowing in the same direction.