Miami F1 GP: excellent opportunity for Ferrari to show that lessons learned are bearing fruit. Why has to show that lessons learned from China are bearing fruit.

We have repeatedly emphasized that the potential of the Ferrari SF-24 single-seater exceeds its current performance. This refers to the first ground-effect car from the Maranello team, which, starting from a blank slate, has effectively embraced more efficient concepts related to the current regulatory framework. The 2024 Formula 1 campaign’s primary objective remains the same: to apply as much pressure as possible to the formidable Red Bull world champion side. This is a team that has fully grasped the fundamental dynamics of the regulations governing the balance of wing cars since 2022.

The Prancing Horse secured a splendid race victory at the Albert Park circuit in Australia. It did so by capitalizing on the only technical failure of Max Verstappen, who was forced to retire on lap 4 due to a problem with the braking system at the rear of his car. For the rest, the two Italian cars pursued, sometimes better, sometimes worse. There were generally good performances, but still fluctuating concerning tire issues. Problems were encountered in activating the compounds in various competitive scenarios, single lap outlap in the qualifying session, race pace with a high load of fuel on board.

These are two different dynamics, yet they stem from the same endemic characteristic of the red car. The Italian single-seater inherently imparts a not very high amount of energy onto the tires. While this trait helps manage degradation, it does not allow the tires to “light up” correctly, maintain them within the appropriate working range, limiting the grip, which is insufficient. So much so that the performance suffers, and the time results are lower than those theoretically achievable. The result? It’s not possible to push as hard as needed.

Ferrari SF-24, Miami as a turning point in performance

Scuderia Ferrari has been hard at work, yet again, ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, with particular attention. Measures have been taken to manage the transition between Soft and Hard tires, the main issue encountered in this early phase of the 2024 Formula 1 championship. A technical study at the suspension level to deliberate new suspension setup. Minor corrections from which benefits can be derived concerning tires, without however disrupting the balance related to the aerodynamic platform. This is supported by investigative simulation related to the mathematical model of the compounds, useful for hitting the track in the first free practice session, the only session of the weekend, with a couple of new warm-up strategies to inject the correct amount of energy into the tire.

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As mentioned, the Sprint Race format, for the second time in the championship, makes its return. It’s an excellent opportunity to show that the lessons learned in the Chinese Grand Prix are bearing fruit. We refer to the fact that the FIA, very kindly after years of pressure, has decided to grant a double parc fermé. A very productive dynamic if used properly. McLaren sets an example, as we saw at the Shanghai International Circuit, where minor tweaks to Lando Norris’s MCL38 car number 4 allowed the British driver to change his competitive fortunes for the Sunday race. This after an initial 100 kilometer mini race where things did not go as planned.

Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur discusses this topic in his preliminary assessment for the press approaching the Miami Grand Prix. The French manager recalls the headaches suffered but notes, examining the American layout, a significant difference from the Chinese one. A track that provides useful feedback, unlike China where general information was lacking in this respect. The ever-smiling Fred Vasseur carries with him a certainty: the ability of the Ferrari SF-24 to perform much better than what was seen two weeks ago. This considering that beyond the favored Red Bull, the competitors, primarily McLaren and then Mercedes, both with various updates, are ready to give battle. And we shouldn’t forget about Aston Martin.

The importance of fully utilizing the only hour available in the first free practice session reigns supreme. To optimize the setup of the Italian cars, verifying the aforementioned work on the Pirelli tires. To optimize the two qualifying sessions, to be able to gain key grid positions that may favor strategy and performance in the 400 kilometers and more that will be covered with a lot of fuel onboard on Sunday. Lastly, thought goes to history and the present. On one hand, the connection with America that Ferrari will celebrate in various ways, including the special livery for the SF-24 in shades of blue. On the other, the new partnership with HP.