Ferrari president Sergio Marchionne is now 100% convinced that the team can challenge Mercedes this year for both drivers and constructors title.
Sebastian Vettel emerged victorious from the Bahrain Grand Prix and leads Lewis Hamilton in the driver's standings by 7 points, while Ferrari is ahead of the Silver Arrows by a mere 3 points in the fight between constructors.
It looks set to be a battle right down to the wire, and Marchionne couldn't be happier: "It is, of course, hugely satisfying to be back on the top step of the podium with Seb," read a statement issued by Ferrari President Marchionne following the race.
"More importantly, however, we are now completely confident that our victory in Melbourne wasn't just a one-off and that we will be at the forefront of this World Championship until the last.
"We finally have a competitive car to count on and it is important to recognise the speed with which we implemented the developments demanded for each new race.
"All this is the fruit of super work at the track and in Maranello, so my compliments not just to Seb for his achievements in Bahrain, but also to the whole team.
"That said, we are well aware we have a long road ahead and know that if we want to get to the most important finish line of all, we cannot stint on our commitment and focus for a second."
Fergal Walsh
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Bahrain International Circuit - Winter testing
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Login to replymbmwe36
Posts: 533
I don't think there is any doubt about that at this point. Red Bull is the wild card in all of this. When they get the engine upgrade, they may emerge as a contender as well.