Assault on Red Bull - Revised Front-runner Verstappen now in Doubt?
Is it the end for Red Bull's reign of deciding who's on the top step of the podium race by race?
This season, Ferrari has held their major update for the first Italian Grand Prix. The car has undergone significant changes, including revamped sidepods that resemble those of Red Bull and Mercedes due to their shark-like appearance. The rear wing has also been sporting a new design. Will these updates help them defeat Verstappen? They certainly hope so!
Ferrari determined to dethrone Red Bull in Italy!
Among Ferrari's top goals is to break Red Bull's dominance in front of their home audience. And what does Red Bull have to offer? No major updates - they're banking on their current car that was defeated by McLaren in Miami.
Verstappen sounds less than optimistic during the press lap. He's set realistic expectations, "We know Ferrari will come with a significant update. That's why we can't gauge where we stand. It'll be the finer details that count this weekend. The competition is closer than it's been in a while, for sure."
Similarly, Perez (34) echoes these thoughts, "McLaren had the quickest car in Miami. Ferrari was extremely powerful. But we didn't tap into our full potential either. Still, we accumulated the most points. We're bracing for a closely contested weekend."
McLaren joins the battle for victory against Red Bull
It's not just Ferrari attempting to outshine Red Bull. After their win in Miami, McLaren is clearly aiming higher and vying for top position.
Yet, McLaren's not bragging about it. Lando Norris (24), their most recent Formula 1 victor, remains cautious ahead of Sunday's race. He acknowledges the Italian track suits their car better, but plays it cool, "Imola was historically one of our strongest tracks as a team and for me as a driver. We'll make further strides."
However, he avoids branding them as favorites, preferring a modest approach, "We are currently the third-best team. I don't think we're at par with Ferrari and Red Bull, but we're inching closer. I believe we needed a few more steps like we took in Miami."
Mercedes unexpectedly performs in practice
Mercedes made a small comeback during the afternoon's free practice session. Russell and Hamilton delivered impressive lap times, with Russell leading at times. They ended up in second and seventh places respectively.
Leclerc in the Ferrari came in first, while Sainz nabbed third spot.
... and the Tifosi are already envisioning victory.
After struggling with his balance, Verstappen had more issues and went off track several times in the session's closing minutes. His final position was fifth.
Qualifying commences on Saturday at 4 p.m. (live on RTL and Sky) - fans and drivers will then know who the real favorites are for the race.
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Source: symclub.org
