Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto says that there will be no major changes to the Ferrari SF90 in the coming races.
The Scuderia outfit has started the year on the back foot and is currently struggling with its aerodynamic package and tyre performance, which has left it behind rivals Mercedes in the championship.
MORE: Vettel: Ferrari's current line-up a 'good situation' for the team | Verstappen expects Ferrari to be more competitive in Canada
Mercedes has taken six victories at the opening six races of the year, while Ferrari only reached the second spot on the podium for the first time this season last time out in Monaco.
Binotto stated that Ferrari is well aware of its current situation, but ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix weekend, he conceded that changes to help improve its package will not be coming soon.
"We know we’re not competitive enough right now and, for the time being we haven’t got any more changes coming on the car that will have a significant effect on the problems we have encountered since the start of the season," he said.
"However, the Canadian track characteristics present another different challenge, given that top speed, braking efficiency and traction are the main considerations.
"We arrive here ready to do our best and to put the mistakes of the last few races behind us.”
12 months ago, Ferrari emerged victorious from the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, as Sebastian Vettel took the race win which put him one point ahead of Lewis Hamilton in the drivers' championship.
“Thinking of Canada, there are so many memories of past seasons that come to mind," Binotto added. "This track has usually produced some exciting and unexpected racing.
"The long straight and the big braking zone before the chicane that leads onto the start-finish line is the place to overtake and to see some good fights."
Replies (10)
Login to replycalle.itw
Posts: 8,527
No significant upgrades to come soon, when Merc' is beating you raw and rattling, and Red Bull is kinda knocking at your door?
Ram Samartha
Posts: 1,172
Considering they just came with a new engine it's not too surprising really. But they don't always tell us the truth either, so basically the speculation game until Friday morning.
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Well just and just, but yes it wasn't too long ago. But they could be releasing a bigger chassis upgrade, Lord Sith knows they need that.
f1fan0101
Posts: 1,804
what a shame. really don't see any way they can recover this year
abhidbgt
Posts: 283
I don't think it's an easy fix and certainly not a quick fix. I know they are down under but the last thing they need is introduction of a bad upgrade like they did last year, especially considering that Red Bull are in the hunt.
Pistonhead
Posts: 556
Agree Calle - is this indecision on development approach/philosophy or is there a major upgrade due?
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Personally I think it's hard to tell, but I'd say it's the earlier, alternatively just pure sloppyness. Considering the fact that they are falling behind this much, I'd say it would make little sense in terms of morale to hide any potential light in this silver-petrol coloured tunnel.
f1ski
Posts: 726
They are coming with a new chassis is my guess. Or they are full bore with next years .
Biggs7
Posts: 38
I think they were to aggressive with their upgrades last year and they flopped a great deal. Thinking they will capitalised on that this year but instead made a bigger mass out of it. I remember Mercedes had the same problem not long ago. The trend or the downfall is when this two teams want to be more faster they encounter this problem the lack of grip or the tires can't warm up. That's why Ferrari is more faster on track with low grip and long straights.
Biggs7
Posts: 38
Its good they don't bring upgrades to understand the current aero dynamics on the track which they were more stronger last year because Mercedes also used this track to analyse their problem and to my memory after this race Mercedes started to dominate some races. This is good for Ferrari please save this post for future reference to prove me wrong.