The F1 is undergoing a technical overhaul for next year to make racing and overtaking easier after a significant change to the regulations focusing on aerodynamic performance of cars.
Ferrari will race next year to build on its improved performance through 2021, which saw it recover from its worst season in 40 years, finishing third overall, taking five podiums and two pole positions.
At Ferrari’s annual Christmas media event at the end of the year, team boss Mattia Binotto announced the first details about next year’s car and confirmed plans for a market launch in mid-February.
“The car will be presented in mid-February,” said Binotto.
“We haven’t set the date yet. This is the date from February 16 to 18, but it will be finalized in the next few weeks. “
Binotto added that Ferrari had not yet decided on a name for the new car, but was encouraged that the design and development went “according to plan”.
“We know that we have no references to the others and the competitors,” said Binotto.
“That is the hardest part, we have no instructions on what is going on with the others. But for me it is important to know that we are achieving our goals and that we are progressing as planned.
“We know that changing the regulations is a great opportunity, and for us too [it’s] an opportunity.
“We have had a budget ceiling since 2021, which will be even more restrictive next year, another major challenge. But with all that I have to say that the team is well organized and works hard for me. “
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari SF90 mule cart for developments in 2022
Photo by: Mark Sutton / Motorsport Images
A change that has already been confirmed for Ferrari next year is the end of the title sponsorship contract with Mission Winnow, a campaign by long-term partner Philip Morris International (PMI).
Ferrari was only listed as “Scuderia Ferrari” in the youngest entry list for the 2022 season, after having driven occasionally this year as “Scuderia Ferrari Mission Winnow” and wearing the green Mission Winnow branding on his car.
Binotto had previously said that Mission Winnow was unlikely to continue as Ferrari’s title sponsor, and said during the phone call this week that talks are ongoing about what the PMI partnership would look like in the future.
“I think there are a lot of ways we can work with them and keep them as partners,” said Binotto.
“We have options on the table at the moment and we are still in discussion with them. Hopefully they will remain as a strong partner.
“But it will be a few more days and a few more weeks. I can’t say much at the moment. “
