Ferrari brace for high downforce challenge at Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix

In what has been an underwhelming season for Scuderia Ferrari, their high downforce configuration has emerged as a stumbling block, manifesting in the team's podium finishes and pole positions being exclusively at low downforce tracks.

The Italian Grand Prix at Monza showcased their prowess, clinching a third and fourth-place finish, along with pole position for Carlos Sainz on the low downforce circuit. 

However, the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort just a week prior saw Charles Leclerc struggle to tame the car's unpredictability in high downforce setup, underscoring the intricacies of their challenge.

Marina Bay, Singapore's circuit, is known for its relentless demand for downforce, a facet Jock Clear elaborated on, describing the delicate balancing act Ferrari must master. "Going into Zandvoort, we knew that it was a circuit that wasn't going to suit us and was going to expose the Achilles Heel of the car," Clear explained to media.

He continued, "You saw that with Charles putting it in the wall in qualifying, so it is a car that is very much on the edge of circuits like that. It has still got those nasty traits that don't give the driver confidence."

Charles Leclerc's assessment of the car's performance mirrored Clear's insights. "It is a very edgy car when we go to those circuits, so we need to work on that."

The Singapore Grand Prix, slated for September 15-17, presents an arduous challenge. Marina Bay's 5.063km bumpy street circuit, coupled with its sweltering conditions, pushes drivers to their limits. 

Ferrari must find the key to harnessing their SF-23's potential on this demanding stage to stay competitive in the Formula 1 season.

 

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