Leclerc Shares Debut Thoughts on Ferrari SF24
Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc shares first impressions of the new SF-24 after the Fiorano series. The Italian team unveiled their new car earlier this week, undergoing initial refurbishment ahead of pre-season testing.
Ferrari faced a challenge last year and, contrary to initial expectations, finished third in the constructors’ championship. The SF-23 has caused some problems, particularly due to the unpredictability of the curve.
Asked by media including RacingNews365 about the comparison between 2023 and this year’s installation round, Leclerc said: “I’m trying to remember. I remember after the first lap last year, or if not the first lap, then the first three or four laps, I Not happy with the car’s performance. The car is too heavy. This year’s car is more balanced and in better shape.”
Despite the initial positive sentiment, Leclerc stressed that this does not automatically guarantee Ferrari a competitive start to the season. “On the other hand, I’d say it doesn’t mean anything for the car’s competitiveness. If the other teams made more progress in increasing their lap times, it could be an easier car to drive. The car, but if it’s not fast enough, it’s going to be fast on the track. No. In terms of competition, it’s very difficult – how it actually feels on the first lap, I can say it feels better this year than last year.”
Leclerc’s caution reflects uncertainty about Ferrari’s overall performance next season, despite an improved opening lap. He emphasizes the importance of making decisions about a vehicle’s speed based only on initial feel.
The SF-24 sparked a lot of interest, and the detailed images released show that Ferrari put a lot of thought into designing a competitive car. However, the true measure of success is determined when all the cars are on the track and competing against each other.
As the 2024 F1 season approaches, expectations are high as to whether Ferrari can regain its dominance in the series. Fans can look forward to more extensive testing in the pre-season to assess the SF-24’s real-world performance in various track conditions.
All in all, Leclerc’s positive first impressions of the SF-24 lend an optimistic outlook, but Ferrari’s real acid test will be at the race, where consistent performance and competitiveness will be truly tested.
