Ferrari chief Frederic Vasseur has dismissed claims that the 2024 Formula 1 season will be a “transition year” for the team as they wait for reinforcements from rival teams. The Italian manufacturer is aiming to bounce back from a difficult season last year, where they finished third in the Constructors’ Championship, a massive 454 points behind Red Bull. Vasseur has been working to strengthen Ferrari’s technical team by recruiting talent from their main competitors, including Mercedes’ Head of Trackside Engineering, Loic Serra. However, due to gardening leave, Serra and others have been unable to start at Maranello immediately. Despite these challenges, Vasseur insists that Ferrari’s internal expectations for the upcoming season have not been dampened. He emphasized that 2024 is a crucial season for the team and they are fully focused on achieving their goals. Ferrari is planning a complete overhaul of their 2024 car to provide a more stable platform for their drivers. However, Vasseur acknowledges that true progress can only be measured once the car is compared to the competition during testing in Bahrain. He emphasized that it’s not enough to be satisfied with the development made; the ultimate judgment will be based on how Ferrari’s performance stacks up against their rivals.
Ferrari concluded the previous season with the only victory that was not achieved by Red Bull and established themselves as a consistent contender in qualifying configuration, securing three pole positions in the final five rounds.
When questioned about the possibility of the team winning multiple races or challenging Red Bull for the championship, Vasseur highlighted that achieving the former would greatly benefit the latter.
“I believe that if we manage to secure some race victories, it will significantly enhance our chances in the championship. These two objectives are interconnected,” commented Vasseur.
Regarding the on-track organization, Vasseur emphasized that there won’t be any major changes, only minor adjustments that will gradually steer the team in the right direction.
Vasseur also emphasized that Ferrari cannot afford to become complacent at any point, as the constant evolution in F1 necessitates continuous progress.
“By nature, if you become content with your current position, you are doomed. It is crucial to always strive for improvement, addressing your weaknesses and making advancements in specific areas,” outlined Vasseur.
“Undoubtedly, the addition of new personnel to the team is a positive development. Day by day, we are reinforcing our position and making progress.
“However, it would be premature to declare that we have reached our goals and that I am satisfied with the current situation. Adopting such an approach would mark the beginning of the end.”
According to the Source motorsportweek.com