F1 News: Ferrari To Bring Yet More Upgrades For Japanese GP
Ferrari is set to introduce additional upgrades to their SF-23 car at the forthcoming Japanese Grand Prix. The move comes as the Prancing Horse seeks to bolster their challenge following a strategic triumph in Singapore.
Key Takeaways:
- The 2023 F1 season has been dominated by Max Verstappen and Red Bull, but Ferrari showcased their mettle by ending the Austrian team's winless streak with a Carlos Sainz victory in Singapore.
- Red Bull's RB19 faced unexpected challenges in Singapore, notably failing to optimise their car setup, leading to reduced competitiveness.
- Ferrari's next move involves enhancing the SF-23 with a new specification, especially focusing on efficient load at high speeds, as they prepare for the 2024 season.
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Amidst a season firmly under the reign of Max Verstappen and Red Bull, the Singapore Grand Prix unveiled a twist. The Marina Bay circuit's luminous night posed significant challenges for Red Bull, rendering the RB19 less competitive, with setup issues that couldn't be rectified in time.
"We would have thought about it, but P11 is still a decent position to get points or maybe a podium," Red Bull admitted post-qualifying.
However, Verstappen's squad wasn't the sole talking point in Singapore. Ferrari, with strategic ingenuity, capitalised on Red Bull's vulnerability. The Marina Bay circuit presented a golden opportunity, allowing Carlos Sainz to clinch victory and break Ferrari's winless spell. Integral to this were the choices made for Charles Leclerc, opting for soft tyres, ensuring a Ferrari 1-2 start.
"We did not want to lose the race due to degradation," the team emphasised.
As the race unfolded, the Maranello outfit's decisions became increasingly evident. Despite the presence of a Safety Car, the team's drivers meticulously managed their tyres and track position. The final laps featured a battle between Ferrari, McLaren, and Mercedes, resulting in a well-deserved win for Sainz.
However, the aftermath of Singapore isn't where Ferrari's story ends. Looking ahead to the Japanese Grand Prix, the team plans significant enhancements.
"A new specification is ready as the last significant upgrade of the year," sources revealed.
Ferrari's emphasis is on understanding and refining the SF-23's concept, with significant development aligned to the 2024 season. The upcoming parts, approved pre-break, focus on high-speed efficiency—a vital factor for Suzuka.
Suzuka offers a contrasting challenge, demanding rear train management, traction control, and understeer regulation. But with Red Bull seemingly vulnerable and Ferrari's upcoming upgrades, a renewed battle for second between McLaren, Mercedes, and Ferrari is on the horizon. September could very well unveil a more prepared and formidable Ferrari outfit ready for the challenge.