Ferrari leaves Japan with the awareness of having at least reduced the gap that last year, again on this track, it paid to Red Bull. At the moment however the Ferrari it must be content with being the second absolute force. At least for most weekends. In fact, it must be said that Suzuka was one of the most difficult tracks for the Red. A track that requires an almost perfect single-seater. However, having come close and conquering the podium is an excellent signal for Ferrari which must prepare developments to attack Red Bull on "friendly" tracks. The Spaniard from Ferrari has already won the victory on one of these tracks, in Australia. However, there are other tracks that according to Carlos Sainz can give Ferrari victory again.
Sainz, the four tracks on which Ferrari can impose itself
The direction taken by Ferrari is different from that of last season, and this can be seen above all in the comparison between last year's qualifying sessions and those held so far. Charles Leclerc is especially struggling. He, who usually brings out the best of himself in qualifying, is suffering from problems in getting the tires up to temperature, which sacrifices his approach and the result. In the race, however, the situation is completely opposite to that of last season. The SF-24 proves kinder to the tires. More competitive. Carlos Sainz, as the three certify podiums consecutively he managed to find a consistency that bodes well for the Red team. Compared to the last season in which we truly witnessed absolute domination, with only 1 race not won by Red Bull, the 2024 season seems to see a Ferrari closer to the Austrian team than Aston Martin and Mercedes were last year .
This opens up the possibility for the team to fight for victory on tracks that on paper best match the characteristics of the SF-24. Sainz, interviewed at the end of the weekend in Japan, therefore identified the following races: “I think we will have a chance in Monza, Monte Carlo, Singapore and maybe even Miami.”
Miami of the four is the closest stop. In fact, after China, Formula 1 will arrive in America for a one-off, before returning to Europe. The hope for the Red Army is to unlock the potential of the SF-24 also thanks to the updates. A step that will be taken shortly, considering that Red Bull already travels with those too. The first important developments should arrive in Imola. Until then the team needs to figure out how they can make the most of the package they already have.
Declaration source: FormulaPassion
