With an impressive performance in the season’s final race in Abu Dhabi, Ferrari proved they are once again a serious force in Formula 1. However, the strides Ferrari has made were not enough to snatch the constructors’ title from McLaren. Team boss Frédéric Vasseur is proud of the progress the team has made, but emphasizes that there is still much work to be done to truly seize the crown next year.
Mixed Feelings After a Strong Season
The season had many highlights for Ferrari, including multiple victories and a strong final sprint. In Abu Dhabi, Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz pulled out all the stops: Leclerc stormed from the last starting row to the podium with an impressive third place, while Sainz secured his ninth podium of the year with P2. Yet, Ferrari finished just 14 points behind McLaren in the battle for the constructors’ championship.
“It’s a mixed feeling,” Vasseur admitted. “We had a much better season than last year, and I’m proud of that. But it’s frustrating to come so close and just not make it.” The team boss complimented McLaren on their performance, but left no doubt about Ferrari’s ambition: “We’ve made big strides, but it wasn’t enough. That means we have to work even harder to grab the title next year.”
Good Performance, But More is Needed
With improved reliability and consistent podium finishes, Ferrari clearly made a step forward in 2024. The team scored a whopping 246 points more than in 2023 and achieved their highest number of victories since 2018. However, the team failed to surpass McLaren. “It’s clear that we need to improve in all areas,” Vasseur continued. “We need to find every tenth of a second that’s available. Better reliability, better strategy, better car, everything needs to be right.”
A New Era
The race in Abu Dhabi also marked the end of an era for Carlos Sainz Jr at Ferrari. After four years, the Spaniard is leaving the team to play a key role in Williams’ rebuilding. Vasseur praised Sainz for his valuable contributions to the team. “Carlos was an essential part of our success, both on and off the track. We wish him all the best for the future.”
After a season in which Ferrari became a serious challenger again, there is a hunger for more. With Lewis Hamilton on board and a motivated team behind the scenes, Vasseur wants nothing less than the ultimate reward: the world title. “We have made great strides, but this is just the beginning. Next year we want to win everything,” said Vasseur.
