Ahead of the 2020 Formula One season, Scuderia Ferrari could adopt an interesting development strategy. In essence, Ferrari is adapting the same strategy that Mercedes used for its 2019 W10.

First and foremost, the Ferrari that will debut on 11 February at Reggio Emilia will run during the first winter test session in Barcelona from 19 to 21 February. However, a completely different car will run in Catalunya from 27 to 29 February, and that will be implemented for the rest of the season, as per Motorsport.com Italy.

Just like their rivals, the Maranello outfit could halt any aerodynamic development any time during the season and shift their focus on the 2021 car.

The Maranello factory workers can then assess the mechanical parts to see if they meet the expectations of Project 671. Another key aspect to consider will be whether the Pirelli tires can adapt to the 2020 iteration of the Scuderia Ferrari. This is all the more important to tackle, especially after the problems that emerged in 2019.

What is the Scuderia Ferrari gameplan?

The real Ferrari can only be evaluated in the second pre-season winter testing session. This is usually the time when the aerodynamic packages make their debut. Only then can Ferrari truly see where it stands in comparison with Mercedes and Red Bull. In other words, the million-dollar question is, will Ferrari have the downforce to be the quickest druing the season?

Just like with Mercedes, nothing ground-breaking will be seen in the first week of testing. The big guns will be introduced for the second test and the opening race.

This will also leave ample amount of time in the wind tunnel to develop various concepts. For example, they could increase vertical thrust without penalizing aerodynamic efficiency. One thing is for sure, the Scuderia Ferrari F1 team could be finally taking the championship battle very seriously.