Source – Formula1.com
Over the next few races, Ferrari, Charles Leclerc, and Carlos Sainz provide a significant challenge to the top F1 order.
As the F1 circus moves past the Italian Grand Prix, Ferrari emerges as a formidable contender, making waves with their impressive performance in the 2024 season. With three race victories already under their belt—secured at Melbourne, Monaco, and Monza—the Scuderia’s SF-24 has shown a particular flair on circuits that demand aggressive kerb-riding and exceptional traction out of slow corners. This success sets a promising precedent for Ferrari as they head into the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix, races that align with the strengths demonstrated by their car.
Ferrari’s recent wins highlight their capability on tracks with challenging characteristics. Melbourne, Monaco, and Monza each share a demand for precision in managing kerbs and handling slow-speed corners—traits that could play to Ferrari’s advantage on the street circuits of Baku and Singapore. The upcoming races could thrust Ferrari into the thick of the constructors’ championship battle, with the team currently trailing Red Bull and McLaren by 39 and 31 points, respectively.
In Baku, the combination of tight 90-degree corners and short bursts through the narrow castle section could suit Ferrari’s aggressive driving style. Charles Leclerc, who has repeatedly excelled in Azerbaijan, has claimed pole position there three times since 2021. Despite his past misfortunes, including mechanical failures and Red Bull’s dominance, Leclerc’s track record suggests he is well-positioned to challenge for victory.
Singapore’s Marina Bay Circuit presents another opportunity for Ferrari. Last season, Carlos Sainz’s triumph at this race ended Red Bull’s clean sweep and showcased Ferrari’s ability to disrupt their rivals’ dominance. The circuit’s unique demands—steep corners and a challenging layout—play to Ferrari’s strengths, as evidenced by their past success in similar conditions.
Red Bull’s struggles on street circuits and with aggressive kerb-riding are well-documented. The team’s rigid aerodynamic concept, combined with their current performance slump, poses a significant concern as they approach these critical races. With the McLaren team also in the mix, Red Bull’s long-standing lead in the constructors’ standings, held since the 2022 Spanish Grand Prix, may be under serious threat.
McLaren, despite its strong performance across various track types, faces its own set of challenges. The team’s current struggle lies in managing team orders between their drivers. Both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have shown exceptional speed, but balancing their championship bids with team strategies remains a delicate issue.
As for Ferrari, their greatest challenge in the Azerbaijan-Singapore double-header will be their tire management. The SF-24 is known for its tire efficiency, which benefits race performance but can be a disadvantage in cooler conditions or on tracks with high-speed straights like Baku. Ferrari’s solitary pole position this season, secured by Leclerc in Monaco, underscores their prowess on slow, twisty circuits, but highlights potential vulnerabilities in qualifying on faster tracks.
With the season entering a critical phase, Ferrari’s ability to capitalize on their strengths while addressing their tire management issues will be pivotal. As they prepare for the upcoming races, the Scuderia’s performance could reshape the championship landscape and propel them into the heart of the title race.
