P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Carlos Sainz admits the upgrades Ferrari needs to bridge the deficit to Red Bull might come too late to contend
Ferrari has emerged as the closest challenger to Red Bull in the nascent stages of the 2024 season, landing five podiums with its revised SF-24 car, including a Ferrari 1-2 in Australia with Carlos Sainz leading. However, Red Bull responded emphatically in Japan, extending their points advantage with a 1-2 finish. Despite this, Sainz found encouragement in Ferrari’s progress at Suzuka compared to six months earlier. He mentioned that Ferrari needs more front-limited circuits like Albert Park to challenge Red Bull before their upgrades arrive next month. Sainz expressed disappointment at missing the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix due to appendicitis, emphasizing the need for Ferrari to close the gap to Red Bull quickly in this crucial season.
