F1 | Ferrari, four qualifying sessions to understand the true potential of the SF21

The first GP of the season, held in Bahrain two weeks ago, provided us with positive performances from Ferrari, called to redeem itself after a disappointing 2020 which saw it finish the World Championship only in sixth place in the constructors' championship. Once the trip to Sakhir is over, where both SF21s scored points, the next events will be important to understand where the new Rossa can really go.

In this regard, Laurent Mekies admitted, net of the improvements, that we will have to wait for some qualifying sessions to understand the level of competitiveness of the SF21.

"We have improved, without a doubt. But there is always work to do to get the most out of it on the track, because (in Bahrain) there are special conditions. We go from super hot afternoon highs to nighttime racing – admitted the Ferrari sporting director, quoted by Autosport – Obviously we know our numbers exactly, but I think the question is what that number becomes when you take into account the progression of others. And once again, I think the real answer to that you'll find out when you analyze the qualifications".

Mekies then added: “You need some qualifications to make sure you have a reliable number where you can go back to the factory and say, 'Okay, guys, we know what we did and where we stand compared to others and so this is probably what they did themselves in the winter.' I think it will happen after two, three or maybe four qualifiers, where you have a consolidated number of estimates of the other guys' output".