Charles Leclerc, a driver from Monaco, is driving the Ferrari SF-24 car during the Formula 1 World Championship in Miami, Florida, USA. Ferrari plans to introduce significant improvements to their car for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix and will use two days of Formula 1 filming at their test track in Fiorano to test these improvements. So far, Ferrari has had a successful start to the 2024 season, with six podiums and a 1-2 victory in Australia, putting them in second place in the championship. However, unlike their main competitors, Ferrari has not made any updates to their SF-24 car, which allowed Lando Norris from McLaren to win in Miami with his updated MCL38 car. Ferrari’s initial improvements for this season are planned for their home race in Imola, a track where they have not won since Michael Schumacher’s victory in 2006. To gain an advantage and familiarize themselves with the new developments before the grand prix weekend, Ferrari has chosen to use their remaining filming days with the modified car. Leaked images from the first day of testing on Thursday show that Ferrari’s third driver, Oliver Bearman, is gaining more experience in Formula 1. Bearman, who replaced the sick Carlos Sainz in Saudi Arabia and finished seventh, will have a practice session in the Haas VF-24 on the Italian track during FP1. Ferrari’s track time will be limited to 200 km on specific Pirelli tires, but this will still allow them to compare track data with their wind tunnel simulations.
However, despite speculation in the Italian press about the potential impact of the improvements, Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur dismissed the idea that they were expecting a major change. Vasseur stated during the race weekend in Miami: “We should not anticipate a revolutionary result, but given the fierce competition, these improvements can enhance performance.” He also noted: “Our rivals introduced new parts this weekend, but it did not have a transformative effect.” Vasseur emphasized the importance of other factors in achieving results, such as driver performance, car setup, tire management, as well as improvements and development. He stressed: “We should not focus solely on improvements; our efforts on the track are equally crucial.”
When asked about the timing of the improvements and whether it was a coincidence, Vasseur replied: “The proximity of the Imola circuit to our factory certainly helps in terms of timely delivery of parts. However, this was not influenced by our location in Italy. Again, we should not expect a revolutionary result, but given the fierce competition, these improvements can bring enhanced performance.”
Furthermore, the test at Imola marked the first time Ferrari unveiled its traditional livery with the blue HP branding, which recently secured a lucrative sponsorship deal. In Miami, the HP branding was visible on the Ferrari car, in the garage, and on the team uniform, but the team showcased a unique design with shades of blue to honor its American heritage.
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Dramatic events unfolded last weekend during the Formula 1 race at Interlagos. Brazilian driver Pedro Silva was involved in a terrible accident that left the crowd in shock. The race was immediately halted as medical personnel rushed to assist the injured driver.
Eye witnesses report that Silva’s car lost control on a curve and collided violently with the safety barrier. The impact was so strong that the vehicle was completely destroyed. Spectators were shocked to see the scene and many feared the worst.
Fortunately, doctors were able to quickly arrive at the scene and provide first aid to Silva. He was taken by ambulance to the nearest hospital, where he is being treated for multiple fractures and bruises. There is no information yet on his health condition, but it is hoped that he will fully recover.
This shocking accident has raised questions about the safety of Formula 1 races. Many fans are demanding a thorough investigation to determine the causes of the accident and ensure that additional safety measures are implemented to prevent future incidents.
Silva’s team is also in shock about what happened. They issued a statement expressing their concern for the driver and promising to support him during his recovery. The team is fully cooperating with authorities to assist in the investigation.
Meanwhile, Formula 1 fans around the world are sending messages of support to Silva on social media. Many are sharing photos and videos of the driver in action, reminiscing about his moments of glory on the tracks. Everyone hopes he recovers quickly and can return to racing soon.
This accident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of motorsport. While it is an exciting sport, it is also extremely risky. Drivers face constant dangers and it is important that safety measures are always improved to protect their lives.
At this time, our thoughts are with Pedro Silva and his family. We hope he fully recovers and can return to doing what he loves – racing on the Formula 1 tracks.