At Ferrari, without too much pre-race posturing, they had clearly stated their high expectations for the Las Vegas GP. Based on pre-event forecasts and simulations, it was considered a favorable event due to the characteristics of the circuit, which suited the SF-24, and its potential to maximize performance on a low-downforce track. In short, it was a prime opportunity to secure a strong result and close the gap to McLaren in the constructors’ standings ahead of the season’s final three races. These expectations, at least partially, were met on the Strip.
In Nevada, the two Ferrari cars managed to outperform only their “direct” competition, showing less dominance than might have been reasonably expected based on their 2023 results. They secured second place with Carlos Sainz and fourth with Charles Leclerc—not pole, but ahead of the papaya team’s direct rivals. The SF-24 achieved the day’s minimum objective but was caught off guard by teams like Mercedes, which, against all odds, took pole with Russell (and Hamilton, barring errors, could have been in contention), and Alpine, which secured a stunning third place on a track that was theoretically unfavorable for them.
It was a challenging qualifying session, as the drivers admitted upon stepping out of the car. However, it does not rule out strong results in the race, as Scuderia team principal Fred Vasseur expressed confidence in tomorrow’s event, bolstered by encouraging race pace data from the Ferraris. This data could allow them to aim for a sensational result, as also suggested by Leo Turrini in his blog Profondo Rosso. Speaking about Ferrari’s qualifying, the well-known journalist also commented on the future of the Scuderia and its next driver, Lewis Hamilton.
“The groundwork for Ferrari’s dream is encouraging. Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc are ahead of McLaren. That’s important, even though Russell deservedly took pole. […] Old Uncle Hamilton missed an opportunity. […] But the Sir is not a pilot of the archives. Back to Ferrari: yes, it’s possible to win. The Exiled Sainz is in great form […] he’s my favorite. The night on the Strip will be very long […] the SF-24 theoretically struggles with the cold. But in race trim, the pace was very good.”
