Ferrari built its successes in the Michael Schumacher era through on-track testing. The ability to run daily validations of innovations or corrections provided unparalleled confidence to the Maranello team. This scenario came to an end by the hands of Luca Cordero di Montezemolo, who, in a moment of folly, decided to comply with the wishes of the British, relinquishing this privilege. However, the historical context serves little purpose now. The Prancing Horse is no longer winning, and the blame cannot be solely placed on the absence of tests, especially since no one is currently allowed to conduct them.
Formula 1 has evolved, and it seems that the Italian team has struggled to adapt to the era of simulations. Keeping up with the top teams has become too complicated. The problem isn’t straightforward, and it appears that this challenge doesn’t let other teams sleep soundly either. Additionally, in recent years, the already limited available sessions before the championship have been further reduced. The eight days of pre-season tests have dwindled to 4 and then even down to 3, significantly limiting the study of new cars before the start of the Formula 1 season.
During the racing season, the only two ways to “test” the cars (in a manner of speaking, given the many restrictions) remain filming days and Pirelli tests. These contexts are still useful for gathering feedback, which is then incorporated into powerful computers to attempt a deeper understanding from an engineering perspective. Perhaps, given the extreme complexity of the aero-mechanical works on the track—correct us if we’re wrong—there should be more opportunities to assess a car’s qualities.
Many insiders within the paddock share this view. The “official reasons” from Formula One are primarily related to costs and the need to save the world from unnecessary pollution. The Ferrari team principal recently expressed his opinion on this thorny issue. The French manager has taken a decisive stance on this matter and, while considering tests useful, especially for the Scuderia, distances himself from a past position that has now run its course.
Fred Vasseur emphasizes the importance of tests for Ferrari that cannot exist
The Frenchman from Ferrari believes that returning to unlimited tests in F1 is not possible. He argues that the budget cap does not allow it. Indeed, the former Alfa Romeo manager is not entirely wrong. His argument makes sense, as Frederic mentions data supporting his thesis. With the current spending cap, re-establishing several test sessions would not be feasible, as the expenses for putting F1 cars on the track are exorbitant. Doing more kilometers would mean having to use more mechanical parts.
Show your support for Scuderia Ferrari with official merchandise collection! Click here to enter the F1 online Store and shop securely! And also get your F1 tickets for every race with VIP hospitality and unparalleled insider access. Click here for the best offers to support Charles and Carlos from the track!
The example from the Frenchman is clear. A day of testing means covering a distance equal to that of an entire race weekend. If the test is multiplied by twenty occasions throughout the year, it practically equals the mileage of an entire championship. It follows that this possibility is not at all sustainable with the current regulatory framework. However, as Ferrari experienced in 2023, when things don’t go well, trying to correct a car’s setup becomes a monumental task, relying on simulators and wind tunnels.
This is because the virtual world is never 100% reliable, and in F1, as we know, every small detail can make a significant difference. Finally, there is another raised issue regarding mere timing. It is the very little time available, considering that the Formula One calendar is increasingly filled with championship events to fill the coffers of Liberty Media. Pirelli tests, despite being very useful and absolutely necessary to refine tire products, already occupy a space that often puts various teams in difficulty.
The direct stakeholders, such as Fred Vasseur in this case, are the first to point this out. In conclusion, a lingering thought emerges. It is more than evident that within the current Formula One context, the American ownership has no interest in dedicating time to on-track tests. And it doesn’t matter if there are complaints or various grievances. After all, not having clear references further complicates the situation, introducing uncertainties and simultaneously bringing joy to the Americans.
Source: Alessandro Arcari for FUnoanalisitecnica
Leave a Reply