F1 News
Ferrari aims their arrows at 2022: "Then we'll competitive again"
- GPblog.com
Ferrari isn't having an easy time of it at the moment. The car performs at a moderate level, so the team can't find the connection with the top. The underlying causes are also so complex that it can't solve one, two, three, and that's why the company has adjusted its expectations. At least, that's what Ferrari top man John Elkann hints at in a conversation with Gazzetta dello Sport.
No titles in last decade
"We're going through a difficult period that started way back. We haven't won a manufacturer's title since 2008 or a drivers' title since 2007. There was the Red Bull win cycle thanks to their aerodynamic capabilities and then Mercedes thanks to their skills in hybrid engines. This year we are not competitive because of errors in the project," Elkann says.
"We have a number of structural weaknesses that have existed for some time in the aerodynamics and in the dynamics of the vehicle. We have also lost our engine power. The reality is that our car is not competitive. You saw it on the track and you'll see it again." So that calls for a change and that was set in motion last week.
Elkann: "Today we are laying the foundation to become competitive again and to return when the rules change in 2022. I'm convinced of that." Right now it does not seem to be possible due to development restrictions imposed by the agreed regulations which remain in force until the end of 2021.
Adjustments do not feel as a restriction
With a fresh new start in 2022 and the earlier introduction of the budget cap, a lot is about to change in Formula 1. However, Ferrari does not see that as a limitation. "We have given the okay to the new rules that will start from 2022, because we believe it is right that there is greater competitiveness within F1."
"We don't see the budget cap as a limit to our ability to win. We take it as a challenge. Our engineers, mechanics and drivers will find strength and creativity within those limits to bring Ferrari back to the top. Personally, I have not seen such a cohesive and strong team spirit in the last ten years."
Finally, Elkann addresses the fans personally. "The fans are suffering as hard as we are, but we know they're close to us. That's why it's important to be clear and honest with them. A long path awaits us. But the most important thing is to work on and off the track as a cohesive team to build the Ferrari we want, step by step", concludes the Ferrari top man.