Ferrari targets P2 with major planned SF-23 upgrades
Ferrari sets sights on P2 in the Constructors' Championship, bringing some upgrades from Zandvoort, a major update scheduled for Monza, all while navigating the budget cap.
Scuderia Ferrari has laid out a strategic plan targeting the second position in the Constructors' Championship.
According to Motorsport Italy, the team is keen to develop the SF-23 until the US Grand Prix in Austin, with modifications of varying magnitude starting from the forthcoming Zandvoort event.
An essential upgrade package is set to debut at Monza, featuring a redesigned underfloor and reimagined side pods, all seeking improved aerodynamic efficiency.
Race against Mercedes
With Red Bull seemingly out of reach at 503 points and Mercedes, their immediate contender, at a 256-point distance, Ferrari's immediate target is Mercedes.
Toto Wolff's team, powered by two competent drivers extracting maximum performance from the W14, maintains a 56-point lead.
Given the fluctuations in team performance, the fight for P2 is expected to be close.
Season review: highs and lows
The season so far has seen Ferrari reap less than it sowed, owing to a series of errors and underwhelming starts with the SF-23.
However, the Belgian Grand Prix podium finish for Charles Leclerc was a positive indicator, revealing the potential of the SF-23 when all components align without errors.
Ferrari’s Racing Department aims to maintain this momentum, focusing on outpacing all competitors except Red Bull's RB19.
Budget cap strategy
Post-summer break, some teams will curtail development packages to stay within the budget cap, directing resources towards the 2024 cars.
Ferrari, however, will persist with upgrades, having allocated a substantial budget cap margin for continued investment in the SF-23's potential.
Technical developments
The rumour mill suggests the implementation of radically designed side pods, despite the project constraints, such as the lower anti-intrusion cone.
Ferrari's adjustments, planned up until the Austin Grand Prix, will begin at Zandvoort, with special focus on Monza's uniquely aerodynamic configuration.
Implications for 2024
As the 2024 regulations will remain unchanged, the knowledge gleaned from the SF-23's evolution could be transferred to the new car under Enrico Cardile's technical guidance.
Ferrari's confidence in its resilience is evident, banking on the hopes that others, constrained by the spending limit, will cease development sooner.
Team Principal Fred Vasseur is determined to rectify a season that has so far proven more complicated, difficult, and disappointing than anticipated.
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