Ferrari’s impressive start to the 2024 Formula 1 season stumbled at the Chinese Grand Prix, marking the first time they failed to secure a podium finish this year. While their SF-24 car, which had posed a strong challenge to Red Bull in the opening four rounds, struggled to perform at the Shanghai International Circuit, the focus shifted to the internal battle between teammates Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz.
Leclerc expressed frustration with Sainz’s aggressive defense of fourth position in the Sprint, which resulted in contact between their cars. Sainz, on the other hand, felt hindered in the main race when Leclerc forced him wide at the start, causing them to lose ground to George Russell’s slower Mercedes.
The intra-team dynamics at Ferrari are being closely scrutinized, especially considering Sainz’s knowledge that he will be replaced by Lewis Hamilton for 2025. The Spaniard, who has performed admirably this season, is now exploring his options for a new drive, with potential opportunities at Red Bull, Mercedes, and Sauber/Audi.
Commentator David Croft discussed the situation on the post-China edition of the Sky Sports F1 podcast, acknowledging that while Ferrari may not mind their drivers racing competitively, they might need to reiterate that their duels should not compromise the team’s collective goals.
Croft highlighted that Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur had spoken to both drivers after the Sprint race and before the Grand Prix, but its impact on the race’s start remained questionable.
Analyzing the first-lap battle on Sunday where Sainz was forced off track, Croft stated that he agreed with Sainz’s assessment that they lost ground, which had a domino effect on their performance.
Despite their setbacks in China, Ferrari remains slightly closer to Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship than third-placed McLaren. However, Lando Norris’ impressive second-place finish in Shanghai has raised expectations for McLaren’s prospects this season.
Leclerc, despite the disappointing weekend, expressed optimism about Ferrari’s upcoming car update, which he believes will be crucial in their quest to bridge the gap to Red Bull.
Croft indicated that the new package is scheduled to arrive in time for the Miami Grand Prix, the season’s second consecutive Sprint weekend. He also noted that introducing upgrades during a Sprint weekend is not ideal, but it allows Ferrari to perfect them for the subsequent Imola race.
Ferrari’s team dynamics and their ability to harness their drivers’ competitive spirit without hindering their collective performance will be key factors to watch as the season progresses.
Ferrari’s Team Dynamics Take Center Stage After Disappointing Chinese GP
