Ferrari vs McLaren: Battle for 3rd between two of the most historic teams in F1

Two of the most historic teams in F1 face a titanic battle for third place in the constructors' championship, with only five points separating them as of round four in the season. And this trend is only set to continue throughout this season.

The Incumbent 

Two-time Grand Prix winner, Charles Leclerc, enters his third year at the Ferrari stable and has already gotten off to an incredible start. More mature than ever, he has taken on the mantle of “team leader”, directing the team in terms of driver-side technical development. Currently on a contract set to expire in 2024, Leclerc is still not settling for less and is pushing hard to rebound the Maranello team back to the front.

Lando Norris has put up a sterling performance in the opening races of this season, claiming a podium in Imola, and holding third in the driver’s standings. Seeming both comfortable and confident at the Woking team, few have doubts that he will prove once again a standout performer.

New movers 

Carlos Sainz has shown strong work ethic at the Ferrari team, and had his hard work rewarded, finishing (highest position at race). His movement to Italy as well as his dedication to integrating himself smoothly into the team has allowed him to grow, race on race, becoming a key player in Ferrari’s resurgence.

While Daniel Ricciardo has only made up 37% of McLaren’s points as of race four, he states that he’s gradually adapting to the car, coming a comfortable sixth at Spain. Given the “homework” of listening to team radios during the winter break, he has been able to come in and rapidly get accustomed to the procedures at the team. He too is eager to get his feet under the table and to shape himself as well as the team into a race-winning unit.

How close?

While one team is fighting hard to quickly return to their former heights, the other has had the benefit of having a steady trajectory of improvement. Yet, both receive the opportunity to turn over a new leaf with the 2022 regulations. Ferrari & McLaren will have to manage this season’s expectations, while not extensively damaging their investment into the upcoming car’s R&D spend. Stakeholders (management, sponsors, fans, partners) will have their eyes on the constructor’s battle, and these expectations will certainly be felt through the entire team’s personnel. 

While Ferrari’s chairman John Elkann wiped last and this season off, stating that expectations for wins will be reinstated in 2022, the Italian marque will still be desperate to make their loyal Tifosi proud. As for Mclaren, maintaining P3 in the championship for two consecutive years will only drive up McLaren’s already strong sponsorship value, providing them with an immense cash influx to max out the cost cap and fund their future endeavours.

Both teams have a lot to win, and a lot more to lose.