The start of the first race is approaching, and we will only find out who enters the new era of Formula 1 in the best way at the finish of the Australian Grand Prix. However, Vasseur points out that the results of the opening race will not be the most important factor.
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| Photo: James Sutton |
Formula 1 is heading into the biggest regulation change in its history, and Ferrari is doing everything it can to enter the new era as strongly as possible. The team even halted development early in last season in order to fully focus on 2026. As a result, many are asking how the famous red team from Maranello will perform.
Team principal Fred Vasseur has made it clear, however, that the result of the first race in Melbourne, Australia, will not be the most crucial one. Instead, he emphasized that the speed of development will be the key to success this year.
“Next year won’t be about what the first picture of the season looks like. It won’t be about the results in Australia, but about your ability to develop quickly.”
“The season will certainly not end in Australia. It won’t matter whether you finish first or tenth. There is still a very long road to go until the end, and that road will be long for everyone,” said the Frenchman.
When asked whether ending last year’s development so early was worthwhile, he replied: “I have no idea. Our sport is about comparison,” he responded. “I can do a good job, but if someone else does a better one, I will look foolish. We are pushing to the limit and trying to do the best possible job. It is certainly true that the more time you spend on a project, the better you become.”
“However, I can’t say whether McLaren, Red Bull, or Alpine are ahead of us. Nobody knows. The most important thing is not to waste time trying to figure out whether others are ahead of you or behind you,” he continued.
Ferrari last won a title in 2008 with Kimi Räikkönen, so the upcoming season will be a crucial one for the Italian team with regard to the years ahead.