It looks imminent that sooner rather than later Ferrari will impose team orders this season. The team have refused to impose the team orders, but if the gap between Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc continues to grow, then they might take a different route. Former F1 world champion Mario Andretti revealed when the team might impose their first team orders of the season.

The American racing legend mentioned that both drivers in the Italian team are capable of winning. But he also pointed out that Charles is currently ahead of his teammate in both performance and points this season. He even gave a very logical explanation why Carlos is struggling against his teammate this season.

Former F1 world champion gives a timeline for Ferrari team orders in 2022

Leclerc is leading the championship after the first five races of the season and has a 51-point advantage over his teammate, who is in 5th in the championship. Mario mentioned that at the halfway point of the season, Ferrari might decide to impose team orders.

“We know that Mattia Binotto leaves them free to fight. We will see at the middle of the season who is ahead of the other and one of the drivers will have to support his teammate,” said Andretti.

“Carlos had some problems, but he knows he has the car to win. And having two drivers in a position to win is very important for the team. Frankly, I don’t think the team needs to put any more pressure on him than he is already putting on himself. He’s upfront because he’s capable of it. He just needs to refine certain aspects,” said the former world champion.

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It looks like the time might be ticking for the Spanish driver to make a comeback in the championship this season. But like Andretti mentioned he can challenge the likes of Charles and Max at the front of the grid.

But it would be fascinating to see if and when will the Italian team enforce their first team orders. They will have to start thinking about the championship very soon and take decisions accordingly.

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