In the high-stakes world of Formula 1, where milliseconds define glory, Ferrari has rewritten its success playbook for 2024. By prioritizing race day performance over qualifying dominance, the Maranello-based team has turned the tables — and the results speak for themselves . With five wins and three poles So far, Ferrari is ready to finish the season with a victory-focused approach not seen since 2015.
This strategic change has positioned Ferrari as a formidable challenger for the Manufacturers' Championshipbeing only ahead of 35 points par McLaren with three races remaining. For a team that has struggled to translate its qualifying power into race day victories in recent years, this marks a significant turning point.
“From Qualifying Kings to Race Day Warriors”
Historically, Ferrari cars have excelled in qualifying but struggled to maintain pace over race distances. Between 2022 and 2023, Charles Leclerc et Carlos Sainz have converted 19 pole positions into just four wins, a glaring imbalance that Ferrari aims to correct in 2024 with the SF-24.
L’Senior Team Performance Engineer, Jock Clearhighlighted this paradigm shift:
“This year we changed our focus a little. Two, three years ago, we were the kings of qualifying but we really struggled on Sunday. Even last year the balance wasn't quite right,” explained Clear.
The change gave the pilots renewed confidence. “Now we go into the race knowing, 'Okay, we qualified P2, P3. We know we can win from there.' Psychologically and technically, it’s the right way to approach the race.”
“The SF-24: Designed for Points, Not Just for Poles”
The development philosophy of the SF-24 has prioritized performance where it matters most—on Sunday. By focusing on tire management, consistency and race pace, Ferrari has designed a car capable of competing at the front of the grid, even against Red Bull and McLaren.
Ferrari's strategy has paid off, with victories in high-pressure scenarios like the recent triple-header, showcasing the team's ability to perform under varied conditions. This balanced approach shifted the team's mindset, allowing them to race with intention rather than defend fragile qualifying advantages.
“The Qatar Test: Ferrari’s Last Frontier”
As Ferrari eyes a potential Constructors' Championship, the next hurdle looms Qatara circuit dominated by fast corners where Ferrari has traditionally struggled. Clear acknowledged the challenge:
“Qatar is a difficult circuit, lots of speed. But I think we're making good progress with the fast corners,” he said, adding, “I don't see the others making much progress. The package we have, I think we can work well on all circuits.”
With McLaren and Red Bull excelling in the high-speed sectors, Qatar will test Ferrari's mettle as they attempt to close the points gap and keep their title hopes alive.
“A Title Within Reach After 15 Years? »
Ferrari has not tasted Constructors' Championship glory since 2008and the stakes have never been higher. A title victory would validate the team's bold decision to overhaul its development philosophy and prove that Ferrari is ready to regain its place at the top of Formula 1.
“The Road to Follow: A Winning Formula”
Ferrari's transformation in 2024 is more than a technical achievement—it's a cultural shift that has reignited the team's competitive fire. By focusing on race day execution, Ferrari has built a foundation for sustained success in the modern era of F1.
With the inflexible constancy of Charles Leclerc et the calculated aggressiveness of Carlos Sainzcoupled with a car that thrives in racing conditions, Ferrari has found its winning formula. Whether they can overcome McLaren and Red Bull to secure the Constructors' Championship remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Ferrari's approach is the right one for a better future.
