Binotto claims Mercedes-Ferrari gap "is not as big as it looks"
F1 News
- Nicolás Quarles van Ufford
Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto thinks the gap between his team and rivals Mercedes isn't as big as it seems, as the German team has won every race and completed the one-two on all occasions, something which has never been done before.
Before the season started, the Scuderia were tipped to be the favourites for the title this year, as they looked quickest throughout winter testing and looked to have the best power unit again.
However, it turned out that Mercedes are the dominant team yet again, taking all five races in a one-two. Ferrari have only had three podiums so far, with Red Bull's Max Verstappen climbing the third step on the other two occasions.
"It's hard for me to make this comparison, as far as the details are concerned, very difficult," Binotto told Welt when asked where Ferrari are compared to Mercedes and Red Bull.
"What is certain is that we are competitive on the straights, and not just because we have good engine performance, but are well positioned aerodynamically for the straight.
"But our performance in the corners is not good, this includes cornering, speed and acceleration. We have deficits in steering and braking compared to the competition. There are always limits to performance, even with a good F1 car, but the problem is not just to identify it, but to find a solution."
The Italian realises that the gap in results is massive between his side and Mercedes, but he insists his team aren't far away from Mercedes and from winning titles again.
"It is too early for a time forecast, but the gap is not as great as it looks for victories and defeats. That's why we have to hurry, increase and improve a lot - even later this season. We have no time to give away, because the competition does not sleep. This can be a process that lasts until the end of the current Formula 1 season."