F1 | Ferrari, aerodynamic chief Sanchez steps down?

Frederic Vasseur after the Bahrain GP he asserted that he "understood", with his usual calm, and complete confidence in the team's fate. The new GeS boss believes in SF-23, reiterating that the tire degradation problems depend more on set-up and balance problems than on the possible incorrect conceptual philosophy of the Maranello car.

Yet the gap on the track from rivals Red Bull was a rude awakening for a team that up until the starting line said it was convinced it could challenge the Anglo-Austrian team for the title. Charles Leclerc's words, very little hopeful and indeed alarming, are the litmus test of the very difficult moment that the Scuderia is experiencing.

A substantial reorganization of the team is expected from Vasseur, as regards the working methodology and decision-making processes, in order to gain efficiency and therefore competitiveness on the track. The new manager's first move was to relieve Inaki Rueda of his duties on the track, and therefore a (dutiful) change in the strategic department.

The rumors of these hours, however, are even more sensational if possible. From what we learn, in fact, Ferrari would be ready to say goodbye to aerodynamics manager David Sanchez. Together with Enrico Cardile (chassis manager and de facto technical director) and Enrico Gualtieri (power unit manager) Sanchez formed the triumvirate of technicians on whom Binotto based his working method and the design of the latest single-seaters, including the SF -23 which is the daughter of the previous season. One of the technical cornerstones of Binotto's Rossa will almost certainly say goodbye to the team.

It is not yet clear whether Sanchez will leave because he was "torpedoed" or due to his professional choice, perhaps moving to another team, presumably across the Channel. What is certain is that Ferrari under Vasseur is slowly changing its appearance; the real transition from one management to another begins.

Antonino Rendina