This year marks the start of a long-awaited new set of technical rules for F1 that will force teams to pursue different aerodynamic concepts and manage the introduction of the new 18-inch tires.
It gives all teams the opportunity to take a big step forward, with Ferrari in particular looking to return to the top of the group after two years without a win.
The importance of this season’s new rulebook led Ferrari to halt development of its 2021 car early last year despite the close battle with McLaren for third place in the constructors’ championship.
Despite the premature end of its upgrade cycle, Ferrari beat McLaren in third place with 47.5 points when Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz Jr together achieved five podiums and two pole positions.
At the top of the overall standings, Mercedes and Red Bull fought a close battle for the championship last year, which lasted until the last race of the season in Abu Dhabi.
Ferrari sporting director Laurent Mekies said, however, that despite the need to focus on their 2021 cars due to the title fight, Mercedes and Red Bull didn’t expect it to have a big impact on prospects for this year.
“I’m sure they had to develop this year,” said Mekies. “However, in both cases they are incredible organizations and it is enough to look at the results to see it.
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari SF90 mule
Photo by: Mark Sutton / Motorsport Images
“That’s why I wouldn’t underestimate your ability to produce a great car by 2022 for a second.
“Yes, they had to spend more for 2021, but when you look at the results they have had over the past 10 years, you have to be very naive if you think it will be easy to fill the gap.
“Because ultimately you still have to close the gap. Even we look at the car numbers for 2022 compared to our current level, and if compared to our current location, X tenths are slower than these guys, then we have to add this gap plus the Gap to them.
“So I wouldn’t be too worried about her.”
Ferrari has already promised that its car will show “a lot of innovation” this year, including an engine that is “significantly different” from the one that will be used until 2021.
The team has not fought for a championship since 2018, while its title drought dates back to 2008 when it last won the constructors’ crown.
