Ferrari not yet at Red Bull level: 'We keep working hard'
F1 News
- Sam Godber
Ferrari scored a podium in Austria for the first time since Azerbaijan in 2023. Charles Leclerc finished second at the Red Bull Ring, but winner Max Verstappen was far out of reach for the Monegasque. Team boss Frederic Vasseur argues that Ferrari continues to work hard to challenge Red Bull Racing.
In Austria, Ferrari came out with a number of updates for the SF-23, including a new front wing and new floor. These seemed to work well, as Ferrari was the second-best team in Austria. However, Red Bull was still dominant: Verstappen's gap to Leclerc was so big that the Dutchman was able to make another pit stop at the end of the race for the fastest lap in the race.
Vasseur sees progress
Despite Red Bull still being out of reach, there is certainly progress to be seen at the Italian team. "The last two races have clearly shown that we have made progress with the SF-23 and that our drivers have been able to drive attacking races, thanks to improved tyre management and a more constant race pace. However, we are not yet able to challenge the current championship leaders [Red Bull], which is why we continue to work hard," Vasseur said in a Ferrari press release.
With the improved car, the Ferrari team boss hopes his team will hurt the many competitors running a home race at Silverstone. "Last year Carlos got his very first Formula One victory here and Charles came close a few times. He [Charles] called Silverstone one of his favourite permanent circuits. Both drivers, together with the whole team, will do their utmost to fight against our opponents who are naturally keen to shine at their home race."