F1, Chassis and good cornering: why Ferrari did well in Monte Carlo

The natural evolution of the Monaco track in terms of grip, in theory, would require caution when analyzing Ferrari’s performance. But in FP2 the confirmation of the SF-26’s form on this track was peremptory, with Hamilton and Leclerc respectively first and second separated by a tenth, followed by Max Verstappen in excellent third, less than a tenth from the Monegasque. The performance of both SF-26s in the second session on a track where the performance of the power unit is not decisive, even less so this year, considering the limits imposed by the FIA ​​on the delivery of electric power for safety reasons and the ban on the use of straight mode (active aerodynamics).

chassis

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In fact, the quality of the chassis (read balance and precise determination of the dynamic set-up) has become an exclusive discriminating factor in terms of performance. Observing from the side of the track at various points of the track, the behavior of both Ferraris was striking: the precision of entry into corners, both in the sections characterized by sequential changes of direction, and when exiting the hairpin bends, guaranteed by excellent traction. Hamilton and Leclerc, in practice, had a car that gave them absolute confidence. In other words, millimetric precision in cornering at the points where it was necessary to graze the guard rail.

rivals

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On a visual level, from the side of the track, it was clear how the dynamic behavior of the SF-26 was not replicated by rival cars, not by Mercedes and even less by McLaren, in the throes of a balance far from perfection and worrying reliability problems. The profound meaning of what emerged in the first two free practice sessions is not only linked to the realistic possibility of replicating the performance in qualifying. In fact, it has a value that can/must be extended beyond the results that can be obtained this weekend. The chassis of the SF-26, it seems correct to reiterate, without any fear of contradiction, is currently the best on the grid, the first two free practice sessions demonstrated this without hesitation. This leads us to think that although the Principality track is unique on the calendar, the SF-26 could, if also supported by adequate performance from the Power unit, prove highly competitive on other tracks.

situation

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The wait for the assignment of the “aduo” by the team’s technicians therefore seems amply justified, knowing that they have a car which, with a small gap compared to the PU Mercedes, could take on a role as a true antagonist to the W17s of Antonelli and Russell. This is not a question of vain hope or fan optimism, not supported by concrete elements. The peremptoriness with which the SF-26 imposed a pace on the flying lap, but also obtained a race pace that could not be replicated by Mercedes, McLaren or even Verstappen’s Red Bull, cannot be dismissed as irrelevant. Ferrari has a serious opportunity to aim for pole position and then make the best of its chances of success on Sunday. Believing is a must, as much as trying.