Ferrari and Mercedes shared a number of battles just a few years ago in Formula 1. However, the difference is that they are now fighting behind Red Bull, and sometimes even McLaren. After the blip in Singapore, Red Bull continued their domination of Formula 1 in Japan. This left Mercedes and Ferrari battling each other. However, Andrew Shovlin, Mercedes Director of Trackside Engineering, revealed an observation that would worry the team.
Ferrari’s Race Day Disadvantage
Under these new regulations, Mercedes has regularly been better on Sundays due to its superior tyre management. Meanwhile, Ferrari has a habit of chewing through its tyres very quickly.
However, Ferrari has also had much better Saturdays than Mercedes. Therefore, Ferrari generally start ahead of Mercedes, with Mercedes finishing around them on race day.
With just 6 races and 20 points between the 2 teams, these differences can prove extremely vital.
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A Disadvantage No More
Andrew Shovlin said that Mercedes analysed the data over the last few tracks. They found that Ferrari has actually become better at managing its tyres. Therefore, Mercedes does not hold a big advantage anymore.
Andrew Shovlin said, “Ferrari did bring an updated floor. So maybe they’ve moved forward.”
“But I think if we look at some of our recent tracks, that advantage we have with degradation, it’s not as evident now in the season as it was in the earlier races.”
Fred Vasseur Concurs
Ferrari’s Team Principal, Fred Vasseur, did not say it outright, but he did confirm these suspicions by Mercedes. Speaking after the Japanese GP, he said, “It’s sure if you have a look at the first couple of races of the season, the degradation or the tyre management, were not always our biggest skill”.
“Coming to Suzuka with this track temp, we were a bit at risk. But at the end of the day, I think we did a good job on this side.
“The race was under control; the strategy was well managed. We did well. A clear step forward compared to the first part of the season.”
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Both Mercedes and Ferrari continue to chase the runaway Red Bull dominating Formula 1. However, with money and prestige on the line, they will make sure this battle continues till Abu Dhabi.
