Ferrari had no problem with drivers crashing in 2021

Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz made the most of last season, even though the Ferrari wasn't a great car. Not surprisingly, because there wasn't much development going on. The Italians focused on the 2022 car early in the season. So the two drivers had to drive on the limit to achieve good results.

Lots of damage

This led more than once to a crash for Leclerc or Sainz. In total the duo ended up in the wall or the gravel ten times, because they were pushing the limit of the car. All this damage cost Ferrari a lot of money. There are teams who ask their drivers to be more careful. Not Ferrari, according to Auto, Motor und Sport. "We encouraged our drivers to push the limits," says race director Laurent Mekies.

It sounds a bit strange. Still, Mekies points out that seeking the limit - and sometimes going over it - pushed Sainz and Leclerc to greater heights. Moreover, there was little development on the car. The costs saved could be invested in spare parts. "That will be different in 2022. We need all the money for the development of the car."

Long distance

Ferrari finished third among the constructors this season, but at a distance from Mercedes and Red Bull. A victory was not celebrated this year either. Sainz did finish on the podium four times. Team mate Leclerc had one podium finish.