Ferrari learns to manage risks on track, but innovation in the factory is still needed. Ferrari has improved its on-track risk management .

The philosophy of risk

In a July 2024 interview with FormulaPassion, Team Principal Frederic Vasseur pointed out that Ferrari’s main area for improvement is its willingness to take risks and embrace responsibility. He stressed that managing risks effectively is a learning process that requires experience and courage. In recent years, Ferrari has shown signs of a bolder approach, especially on track, although this has sometimes resulted in mistakes.

A prime example of this is the “lift and coast” technique, adopted by several teams and famously mastered by Max Verstappen, even if it is not always evident in radio communications. The advantages are numerous: better cooling of the engine and brakes, which allows for a more aerodynamically efficient setup, reduced fuel consumption, and improved tire life.

In the last couple of seasons, Ferrari has increasingly used this technique. However, frequent radio instructions suggest that both the team and the drivers are still learning to master it fully. At times, it seems the team has had to rely on lift and coast to correct earlier strategic miscalculations, reflecting the gradual shift towards a more daring approach.

Cooling management under the spotlight

The thin air and high temperatures of Mexico City placed a spotlight on Ferrari’s cooling strategy, another area where calculated risk plays a role. Frederic Vasseur emphasized that a large portion of performance comes from managing cooling efficiently. Adjustments for the car, brakes, and engine must anticipate track conditions and traffic, often at the expense of outright performance.

There was concern that Ferrari could repeat the overheating issues seen in Singapore, where Leclerc and Hamilton had to manage temperatures for most of the race. Mexico proved the team learned from past mistakes, illustrating the importance of finding performance limits in every area, even at the risk of occasional errors.

Yet, the 30-second deficit to McLaren underscores that taking risks on track is not enough; innovation in car design is equally critical. McLaren’s cooling system proved highly efficient, as highlighted by Andrea Stella, allowing tighter bodywork even in high temperatures. In Mexico, the clean engine cover of the McLaren stood out, while rivals were forced to open large cooling grids, showcasing a clear technological advantage that will become increasingly crucial under the 2026 regulations.

The next step: bold engineering

Cooling management is just one example of how performance depends on both on-track decisions and innovative design. Ferrari’s recent cars have been relatively conservative in terms of chassis architecture, steering geometry, and suspension layout. While some differences may not immediately affect lap times, competitors have demonstrated bold design choices in recent years. Examples include McLaren’s 2025 innovations, Mercedes’ 2022 zeropods, and Red Bull’s 2024 cooling solutions—some initially problematic, but all showing a willingness to take design risks.

Ferrari has taken risks with the 2025 car as well, notably the late switch to a front pull-rod suspension, understanding that the safer alternative would limit development potential. Maranello now needs to further foster creativity and encourage taking risks early in the design process. Creating an environment where engineers can experiment, learn from mistakes, and avoid repeating them—without fear of job insecurity—is essential. Mexico was a reminder of the gap to McLaren, and even with the new 2026 regulations, closing it will require not only refined race strategies but also a transformative approach to car design and innovation.