Despite the challenges, Ferrari's performance in Abu Dhabi offers a glimmer of hope for the upcoming season. A positive ending to a difficult year is how Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur describes the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Both Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton secured points in the final race, with Leclerc narrowly missing out on the podium and Hamilton making a remarkable comeback from P16 to P8.
Vasseur reflects, "Overall, this weekend was not a disappointment." He acknowledges the team's tough start on Friday but praises their recovery and improved pace on Saturday. "We matched Norris's pace in the race, but our issues on Friday cost us."
This season has been a struggle for Ferrari, failing to win a single Grand Prix and finishing fourth in the Teams' Championship, a stark contrast to their close call for the Constructors' title just a year ago.
But here's where it gets controversial... With a massive regulation overhaul on the horizon, the pecking order could shift dramatically. Vasseur emphasizes the need to finish strongly in 2025, ahead of the winter break. He says, "It's important to end on a high note, but next year, we're all in the dark about who will be the favorite. We know our plans, but we don't know the others' strategies."
And this is the part most people miss... Vasseur's focus is on self-improvement. He encourages the team to "refocus on ourselves, push until the last day, and make that last day the beginning of our season."
With a new challenge awaiting, Ferrari aims to learn from their mistakes and start fresh.
So, what do you think? Will Ferrari's strategy pay off, or is there more to the story? Share your thoughts in the comments!