Ferrari is heading into 2021 to bounce back from their 2020 Shambolic season in which they finished a low sixth in the constructors’ championship. They took a great first step to regain that lost glory in part by doing an encouraging performance in Bahrain. However, Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto notes that although the engine has been significantly improved compared to last season, it will still be some time before the level of Mercedes and Red Bull is reached.
Both Ferraris finished the season opener in Bahrain within the points. Charles Leclerc brought his SF21 home in P6 after having had an interesting fight with Red Bull’s Sergio Perez. Carlos Sainz had a very solid P8 on the Ferrari debut, which he would build on in future races.
According to Binotto, Ferrari is still a long way from Mercedes and Red Bull
In an interview, Mattia Binotto revealed that while it’s part of the gap with Mercedes and Red Bull, it’s still a gradual process. He said: “I think we are still missing the engine, certainly less than before. I think the void has closed and we are converging and hoping that by next year, when we have a new aggregate, we will benchmark the others.
“[I] I don’t think we have all the details yet, but here we have seen that we seem to be lacking in all areas. “
“I also think with the aero, medium and fast downforce… it’s the whole package again. But the differences are getting closer now. It is more important that we are working in the right direction with the right tools. And that will make us stronger in the future. “
Formula 1 F1 – Pre-Season Tests – Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir, Bahrain – Ferraris Carlos Sainz Jr. in action while testing REUTERS / Hamad I Mohammed
The Italian believes the team are in a happier environment this season. He said, “I’m relieved, mostly because we may be working in a better position and that is actually very healthy for the team. It is important that the team is in better positions. It helps to stay calm and positive.
“And it’s important for me to come here and see the car that has evolved. The team is now stable and we can work even better. So that was important. “
Can the Italians be the third best team in 2021?
This will be a big step forward from last season’s lows. If they can do that, Ferrari will estimate their chances of a title challenge in 2022. They have something that other teams are sure to be the envy of and they are two reliable and fast drivers.
Formula 1 F1 – Bahrain Grand Prix – Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir, Bahrain – March 28, 2021 Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz Jr. after the racing pool via REUTERS / Lars Baron
The team just needs to make these improvements to the car that could take them to the next level. The Italian team, like any team, should take care of playing the long game and try to take advantage of the 2022 rules change in F1.
If they do, they could be legitimate competitors for the championships, and a good Ferrari is always great for F1.
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