Red Bull Racing has been a consistent force in Formula 1 in recent years, largely propelled by the talent and prowess of Max Verstappen. However, while Verstappen continues to lead the championship table, the 2024 season has witnessed a resurgence from teams like Ferrari and McLaren, shaking up the competitive landscape. This shift was underscored by Carlos Sainz’s victory for Ferrari at the Australian Grand Prix and Lando Norris breaking McLaren’s 110-race winless streak, reminiscent of Daniel Ricciardo’s triumph in 2022.
Fred Vasseur, team principal of Ferrari, acknowledged the changing dynamics in the sport, stating, “What is true is that compared to one year ago, when we are able to do a good job and to put everything together, we are there.”
McLaren made it two non-Red Bull #F1 victories this season at the #MiamiGP 🏆
Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur believes this proves Red Bull is no longer in its "comfort zone" ⬇️https://t.co/L6Hn91VYMy
— Autosport (@autosport) May 10, 2024
He emphasized the pressure being exerted on Red Bull Racing, highlighting the need for a more aggressive approach to strategy. Vasseur remarked, “They are not anymore in the comfort zone of last year where it doesn’t matter what happens and after lap two they were in front.” He characterized this shift as a “game-changer in the management of the race,” indicating a heightened level of competition and strategic maneuvering among the top teams.
Ferrari’s Engineer Shuffle: Charles Leclerc Gets a New Race Engineer
Charles Leclerc, the talented Monegasque driver, has been associated with Ferrari since his debut in Formula 1. Throughout his time with the Scuderia, he has worked closely with his long-time race engineer, Xavier Marcos Padros. However, recent developments have led to a change in this crucial partnership.
Ferrari has officially announced that Xavier Marcos Padros will no longer serve as Charles Leclerc’s race engineer. Instead, the Scuderia has assigned him to new projects within the company. This move comes ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, where Leclerc will compete without his trusted engineer by his side.
Organisational update:
Scuderia Ferrari HP announces that, as of Monday 13 May, Xavi Marcos will bring his valuable experience gained as a race engineer with the Formula 1 team to the development of other important company programmes. pic.twitter.com/88gXmwSMS1
— Scuderia Ferrari HP (@ScuderiaFerrari) May 9, 2024
Taking over the role of Leclerc’s race engineer is Bryan Bozzi. Bozzi has been part of the Ferrari team for a decade, initially working as a wind tunnel research and development engineer. Over time, he transitioned to aero track group engineering and eventually moved into race engineering. His experience and familiarity with the team make him a natural fit for this critical position.
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