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Ferrari “trying to maximise” downforce level on SF1000 for 2020

Ferrari “trying to maximise” downforce level on SF1000 for 2020

11-02-2020 18:56

Bevan Youl

Scuderia Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto has said that they are “trying to maximise the downforce level” of their SF1000 ahead of the 2020 Formula 1 season after having trouble with it last year.

Ferrari launched their 2020 challenger Tuesday ahead of winter testing next week where they will prepare for the upcoming season.
 
The Italian team struggled throughout 2019, managing only three race wins, but Binotto believes their car is on the “extreme” side of design despite it looking similar to its predecessor.

"It may look similar to last year's, but it's completely different,” he said.

"We have been as extreme on the concept as we could, to look for the maximum aerodynamic performance first."

Downforce and aerodynamics were the area in which Ferrari had the most difficulty last year compared to Mercedes and Aston Martin Red Bull Racing.

The Scuderia had the best straight-line speed of the bunch but couldn’t solve their issues with cornering throughout the season.

"[We have been] trying to maximise the downforce level, so the car has been packaged to have a very narrow and slim body shape - that is quite visible," Binotto added.

"We have worked with all the components. The suspension has been designed to have more adaptability on track. We put in a lot of effort to keep the weight down."