Fred Vasseur speaks after the presentation of the new Ferrari SF-24 for the 2024 F1 World Championship: “Drivers satisfied, car is 99% new.” The new car from Maranello confirms a clear evolution compared to the 2023 version, while still preserving the Ferrari vision already employed in the early ground-effect generations. Looking at others, yes, but without borrowing extensively from others’ baskets.
The moment has arrived: the Ferrari SF-24 has finally revealed itself to the world. A single-seater that has been eagerly awaited, amidst rumors, denials, suppositions, and certainties. The initial impact with the track, in the shakedown following the presentation, seemed positive. Obviously, for precise feedback, we’ll have to wait for the Bahrain tests and then the first race of the year.
Frédéric Vasseur remains cautious, interviewed by Sky Sport: “It’s too early to have a clear picture of the performance. We did five laps, which went well, but we’ll have a better idea in Bahrain. We reaped the rewards from the end of last season, working on the weaknesses, designing a car that is easier to drive, and making good strides forward.”
“The car is 99% new,” explains the team principal, immediately putting the brakes on those suggesting that few changes have been made to the car. “We’ve worked hard and made good progress. The initial feedback from the drivers has been very positive both in the simulator and during today’s shakedown. We need to focus on ourselves, knowing where to work and develop the car.” – the French manager pointed out.
There’s no concern about the relationship between Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz: “I’m not worried about the team situation. Carlos [Sainz] is a very professional driver and was a key factor for us in 2023. He will have my full support until the end; there is a mutual trust. You can’t race with the handbrake on when driving a Ferrari.” – he continued.
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Regarding Lewis Hamilton’s arrival in 2025, the French engineer doesn’t reveal too much: “Having Lewis Hamilton is a great opportunity for Ferrari, but it concerns 2025. For now, all efforts are focused on 2024, which we must concentrate all our attention on. That’s why we made the announcement so early. It was like a marriage: both parties must be convinced.”
There’s even a humorous comment about the enthusiasm of the fans: “There were more fans on the fences today than in certain stages of the Championship!”
Source: f1ingenerale
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