F1 | Marchionne on the tests: “The car runs well and all the reliability problems have been resolved”

Speaking at the Geneva Motor Show, Sergio Marchionne spoke about the Ferrari situation, underlining how the first responses coming from Barcelona have been absolutely positive. Ferrari, at the moment, is working in the right direction and compared to last season there is a greater awareness of its capabilities.

The President of the Scuderia di Maranello revealed how all the reliability problems were resolved during the winter, but despite this he did not want to make a comparison with Mercedes.

The tests are just tests and therefore you will have a much clearer idea only in Australia. A small parenthesis also on the Alfa Romeo Sauber team: the FCA CEO praised the work done at Hinwill, postponing any impressions until the end of the last four days of testing in Spain.

“I was looking at the data just a little while ago and honestly we are one tenth behind Bottas”, declared the President of the Red Team. “Let's see because it will definitely be tough. Looking at us, the car is in good condition and the package promises well. I don't have the fear I had last year at the moment, especially regarding the development of the car. At the moment it is impossible to judge the values ​​on the field and I think we will have a clear idea of ​​the situation in Australia.

On reliability and harmony within the team: “We worked well during the winter and that problem is overcome. We shouldn't have any trouble with the engine. The technicians focused on the details that didn't work in 2017 and I must admit that they came up with a good project. Obviously these are the words, I expect an answer on the track too. It's certainly been the most peaceful season since I've been here. We have all the pieces to move forward. Then I don't know how we will fare in the race, but I see them calm, it's a team that has settled in."

Conclusion about the Alfa Romeo Sauber team: “It's too early to make any assessments and I want to see how these tests go. The engine is there and therefore a large part of the problem has been solved. They did a great job. I don't know if the dynamics are already at the level. Last year they finished last, so finishing second to last would be a great achievement. It's a good team, I have confidence."