Former Formula 1 driver Marc Gene has now shared what he’s heard about the performance of Ferrari’s new car in the simulator.
The team are already heading into 2024 in a good place after tying down star driver Charles Leclerc to a new long-term deal.
Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Gene was asked about what’s going on behind the scenes at Maranello.
Marc Gene seemed to be around Formula 1 for a long time but only started 36 Grand Prix.
He spent two seasons with Minardi before a stint as Williams’s reserve driver where he appeared on three occasions for the British team.
Gene had a successful Le Mans career but joined Ferrari as a test driver all the way back in 2004.
He’s still an ambassador for the team and has a little bit of inside information when it comes to what’s going on with their development.
A previous report has suggested that Ferrari weren’t previously happy with the development they’ve done in the simulator this winter and Gene has now provided more details.
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The aim has to be to close the gap to Red Bull and pull out a lead over the likes of Mercedes and McLaren.
That will be easier said than done, especially as Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris can already look forward to an early upgrade package arriving once the season commences.
Gene provides information on Ferrari simulator performance
Asked if Ferrari are optimistic about their chances this season, Gene said: “Optimism? All we can tell is what the simulator tells us and the sensations of the drivers in the simulator.
“The track, in any case, is the one that rules and is the final judge. But it is true that last year at this point we were no longer completely convinced with the car from what the simulator told us and this year the sensations are very different.
“But we still have to wait to see the car on the track, which will be on February 13 (the day of the car’s presentation in Maranello) and then the preseason test in Bahrain.”
Gene was keeping his cards close to his chest about what he’d heard about Ferrari’s work on the simulator but wasn’t downplaying their chances too much.
Of course, he would say that they’re feeling more positive than 12 months ago, but ultimately, their performance in Bahrain will be the best indicator of where they sit.
Leclerc is arguably the best qualifier on the grid and he showed that potential on several occasions last season.
If Ferrari can provide him with a car that can compete with Red Bull during Grand Prix then they have a real chance of competing in 2024.
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