In the lead-up to the 2024 Formula 1 season, Ferrari demonstrated significant growth, positioning itself as a formidable contender for the constructors’ title. However, despite their efforts and considerable progress, they fell short of claiming the championship, ultimately being surpassed by McLaren, a team that had also seen tremendous development over the past 18 months.
During the 2023 season, Ferrari stood out as the only team to interrupt Red Bull’s dominance, highlighted by Carlos Sainz’s clever victory in Singapore. Yet, the disparity between their one-lap speed and performance on race day left them uncertain about their standing for 2024, particularly in relation to their ongoing tyre overheating issues.
2024 Season Beginnings
As the 2024 season kicked off, Ferrari showed promise and stayed competitive right from the start, maintaining pace behind Red Bull. However, the real surprise was not Red Bull, but McLaren, which, despite starting off slower, made remarkable progress following the Miami Grand Prix in May.
McLaren’s upward trajectory soon saw them overtake Ferrari in the constructors’ championship standings. Though Ferrari launched a late comeback, they were hampered by a few critical missteps which set them back irrecoverably.
Canada: Ferrari’s Only Double Retirement
The Canadian Grand Prix marked a turning point for Ferrari’s 2024 campaign with a weekend to forget. They experienced their first double retirement in two years amidst a series of unfortunate events. Both Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz were unable to advance beyond Q2, suffering from a lack of improvements on old soft tyres and lined up 11th and 12th on the starting grid.
The race itself unfolded into a disaster; Leclerc’s race was cut short by an electronical failure in the power unit, while Sainz spun out during the wet race conditions, inadvertently involving Williams’ Alex Albon. This prompted team boss Fred Vasseur to reflect critically on the outcome.
Singapore: Strategy Missteps
Ferrari’s misfortune continued in Singapore, where they were unable to replicate their previous success. A risky tyre strategy went awry, costing them precious time and positions. Instead of securing points to enhance their championship position, the team found itself grappling with unforeseen challenges.
Italian GP: Home Pressures
The Italian Grand Prix, held on their home turf, ought to have been the stage for Ferrari to shine. However, the intense pressure seemed to affect performance, leading to a lacklustre showing that did not do justice to their season’s efforts thus far.
Final Race in Abu Dhabi: Narrow Miss
The culminating race in Abu Dhabi was crucial for Ferrari’s title hopes. Despite a valiant effort, a few strategic miscalculations and ill-timed pit stops allowed McLaren to cement their lead in the standings, ultimately dashing Ferrari’s championship aspirations for 2024.
Impact and Future Outlook
The 2024 season was a testament to Ferrari’s prowess and growth. These key instances, however, highlighted areas needing refinement if they wish to reclaim the top spot in the future. With invaluable lessons learned and a strong foundation laid, the Scuderia is poised for a promising 2025 season. Can they rise to the challenge and retake their place atop the Formula 1 world?
