In the press conference, Vasseur warns everyone about the treacherous Mexican GP. However, there’s a high morale and optimism for the Scuderia.
Following an incredible double podium in the United States, Ferrari’s season seems to have turned a new corner. After the dismal qualifying in Singapore, which cost the team valuable points, the spirits appear lifted post-Austin. The Scuderia is 48 points behind McLaren, the current leader in the Constructors’ Championship, and just 8 points shy of second-placed Red Bull, which, despite the updates seen in Texas, seems more vulnerable. There’s great ambition for a championship that has eluded them since 2008, and despite the challenges in chasing down the Papaya and the Austrian Bulls, it’s time for Ferrari to play all their cards. Maybe.
To win the Constructors’ Championship, Ferrari needs to secure victories in the remaining races leading up to Abu Dhabi, and Mexico (a track where Ferrari hasn’t won since 2015) presents a potentially advantageous opportunity. This doesn’t overshadow the updates that Ferrari will bring to the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez. However, with rising pressure and anticipation, even press conferences become more intense, especially for Fred Vasseur. The Scuderia’s team principal seems to have adopted a different attitude and approach compared to a few months ago, displaying a smile and fewer words, while focusing more on tactics.
The significance of the Mexican challenge and the weight of this appointment seem to be putting pressure on the French team principal, who showed greater caution and awareness in front of the media yesterday. We are witnessing a new version of Ferrari’s team principal—one where “tactics” and a desire for discretion take center stage (traits reminiscent of his friend Toto), yet there’s still an undercurrent of optimism, fully aware of the significant opportunity Ferrari has in these final five races.
Vasseur’s Words for the Mexican GP
Frederic Vasseur opened his statements regarding the Città del Messico event by saying: “We arrive in Mexico energized after the double podium in Austin, which has been a great motivator for the entire team. The Hermanos Rodríguez circuit presents a completely different challenge where managing the car under unique environmental conditions will be crucial. The rarefied air at 2,200 meters in Mexico City places particular stress on the car’s components that need to dissipate heat, such as the power unit, brakes, and of course, the tires.”
He added: “A lot will depend on finding the right balance between these requirements and striving for the best performance, which is not an easy task, but we have prepared well and are ready to do our best. We will approach this race as we have with previous ones, maintaining maximum focus and attention to detail, especially concentrating on ourselves.”“.
When asked whether Ferrari is the favorite in Mexico City, the team principal skillfully sidestepped the question: “I expect the usual close competition between the top teams. At the end of the weekend, we will evaluate our performance as a team”. It’s all very clear and conservative for a Ferrari that can no longer afford to hide or make mistakes despite the cautious tone
Photo: Scuderia Ferrari HP
