Will Ferrari Bring “Aggressive” Upgrades to the Australian GP?

We’re one week away from just the third race weekend of the 24-race calendar and we might already see some upgrades being introduced. Upgrades are an essential part of Formula 1 as teams use their limited budget to maximize their potential on the track. McLaren’s mid-season performance switch is a great example of what a vital role these improvements play. Now heading into the third race weekend of the year, we might see Ferrari also introduce changes to its car, but to what degree and how aggressive? Let’s find out.

We had earlier reported the Italian team was planning to bring some updates to its car based on the data from the first two races. The SF-24 delivered on the expectations of the team back in Maranello and now it’s expected to undergo changes in order to find more pace, the pace that will enable Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz to catch the front-running Red Bull cars. At least that’s what the boss has declared.

“It is crucial to make improvements that work in the coming weeks. Because continuous improvements are necessary to catch up with Red Bull,” said Vasseur. He also believes there were positive steps from Bahrain to Jeddah and that’s the developmental pace they want to continue. “But the race in Saudi Arabia clearly showed a step forward after the good signal from Bahrain. And that’s the best way to fully motivate everyone,” he added.

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So to answer the question, yes Ferrari is bringing an upgrade package to Australia. However, we will witness the “aggressive” in Imola, which is when the team is expected to introduce all the modifications already in the pipeline. For Australia, there will be a taster. Now the question remains: who will enjoy this taster, Carlos Sainz or Oliver Bearman?

Frederic Vasseur gives an honest verdict on the Ferrari lineup for the upcoming Australian GP

Sainz, unfortunately, because of unavoidable circumstances, had to drop out of the Saudi Arabian GP. However, the Spaniard made a shock appearance on the Jeddah Corniche Circuit on race day soon after his appendicitis surgery. Now, the signs are all positive and his track appearance surely puts faith in his return. Additionally, the one-week break for his rest and recovery could not have come at a better time. With all the scales tipping in his favor, will the Spaniard return to the track in Melbourne?

The boss thinks yes with a hint of caution. Vasseur said, “The recovery so far is amazing. The fact he was able to come today to be with the team is a very good sign and a very good support for us. Now, he will fly back with me tomorrow [Sunday] and he will have one week of complete rest, and we will take a decision on when he has to fly to Melbourne in one week’s time. But I’m quite optimistic.”

There’s optimism and we too believe Sainz will be recovered in time for the Australian GP but you never know what goes on in the background. Let’s hope he doesn’t suffer another setback and is back to full fitness soon.