Here we go: Ferrari will race in Bahrain bringing the first significant updates, which will help Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton make up for the current performance deficit.
As already announced yesterday, the new floor will make its debut during Friday’s free practice sessions at the Sakhir circuit. The Monegasque driver confirmed it during media interviews: “In my opinion, the last Grand Prix clearly and reliably showed our current level of competitiveness. We’re missing a few tenths in qualifying, and in the race it’s always very difficult to make up ground. Tomorrow we’ll test the new floor. We hope it helps us improve our performance.”
The high temperatures will be a challenge not only for Ferrari but for all teams. Although they have already run at the Sakhir circuit during pre-season testing, the February weather was much cooler than what is expected in April: we’re talking over 30 degrees Celsius. It will be unbearably hot.
And while Charles Leclerc is hopeful, Lewis Hamilton is more reserved about the updates Ferrari will introduce in Bahrain.
Ferrari: Lewis Hamilton on the updates expected in Bahrain
When asked in media interviews what Ferrari fans should expect from him, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion kept it brief: “You won the Sprint, but beyond that, Ferrari’s results aren’t that great. What would you say to your fans who are expecting something magical from you?”
“Nothing. Simple. Don’t expect anything,” he replied with a smile. “Watch and enjoy. We’re working as hard as we possibly can. That’s all I can say. I have nothing else to add.”
Also yesterday, the Brit responded to the rumors of a crisis within the team that have been circulating for days. While Charles Leclerc seemed to dismiss them, Lewis Hamilton is not interested in reading the criticism: “I believe in myself a lot, and I don’t believe all the things that circulate on social media. I don’t read all the positive or negative things that are said,” he stated philosophically.
“I’m not controlled by forces outside of the team. I focus on myself, listen to my music, do my job. I know how to show up and how to work with people. I’m committed to improving every day. I don’t stress about things that are beyond my control.” – the British driver concluded.
