Ferrari produced a strong performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix as Charles Leclerc registered the team’s first podium of the season, while Carlos Sainz beat both Mercedes drivers to finish fifth. As per reports, the team’s improved performance is down to them having worked on a key aspect that was hampering their progress at the start of this season.
According to Formu1a.uno, Ferrari reduced the height of their car to reduce the porpoising effect. The report states that the Prancing Horse had a significant difference between their qualifying and race pace, as their race cars were much higher than what it was in qualifying. Hence, by reducing the height of their race car, they were also able to improve their pace.
Fred Vasseur gives his thoughts on Ferrari’s improvement
In his post-race interview (as quoted by Formu1a.uno), Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur gave his thoughts on his team’s performance. “I can only be very happy. It was a good weekend with two poles and a podium. We have taken a step forward,” he explained.
When pressed further to explain how Ferrari found better pace in Baku, Vasseur hilariously replied with a chuckle, “Do you think I’ll give you the answer“? The French team principal would be a relieved man as after a difficult start to the new season, he finally achieved his first podium with the side.
Ferrari close the gap to Mercedes in the championship
Despite registering a third and fifth-place finish in Baku, Ferrari continue to remain fourth in the championship. This is a testament to how bad their start of the season has been.
However, the team’s improved results this past weekend helped them increase their points tally to 62 and reduce the gap to third-placed Mercedes (76) to just 14 points. And when it comes to championship leaders Red Bull, it seems that no team will catch them as the Milton Keynes outfit have already registered a whopping 180 points.
When it comes to the Drivers’ Championship, Charles Leclerc‘s fantastic podium finish helped him move up to sixth with 28 points. He is now just six points behind his Ferrari teammate Carlos Sainz, who is currently fifth in the championship.
Now after a solid performance in Baku, Ferrari will hope to continue their dominance at this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix. The race at the Miami International Autodrome will take place from May 5 to 7.
