As the 2024 Formula 1 season approaches its thrilling conclusion at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Ferrari still has a chance to clinch the Constructors’ Championship, but it will require an extraordinary effort.
The final race of the season will take place this Sunday, marking a historic moment where, for the first time since Brawn’s victory in 2009, a team other than Mercedes or Red Bull will claim the Constructors’ title.
Currently, McLaren is in a favorable position with a 21-point lead over Ferrari. They secured the front row during Saturday’s qualifying session, with Lando Norris taking pole position and Oscar Piastri alongside him in second.
In contrast, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc faces challenges starting from the back of the grid due to a ten-place grid penalty following the installation of a new Energy Store (ES) on his SF-24, exceeding the limit set by regulations. Leclerc was eliminated in Q2 on Saturday, qualifying in 14th place, and will start 19th unless further penalties are applied.
Carlos Sainz Jr. qualified third and will start behind the McLarens, providing Ferrari with a glimmer of hope. However, he acknowledged the uphill battle ahead, labeling their situation as a “mission impossible” regarding the Constructors’ Championship.
“It was already extremely difficult. It felt like a mission impossible even before the weekend began. Then we faced issues in FP1 with Charles’ battery dying, and the grid penalty was a significant setback. Coupled with the Q2 elimination, it has made our chances much tougher,” Sainz stated during the FIA Press Conference. “Yet, until the checkered flag drops tomorrow, anything can happen. I will continue to fight for every point, and I know Charles will push hard from the back.”
Sainz also emphasized the importance of the Constructors’ Championship, sharing insights into the dedication of the entire F1 team behind each driver.
“Every fan or journalist who doesn’t fully appreciate the Constructors’ Championship should visit a Formula 1 factory. You would understand its significance as you witness over a thousand individuals working tirelessly to support us drivers,” Sainz explained. “We are merely the final piece of a complex puzzle, with each team member contributing to the overall performance.”
He further elaborated on the current competitive nature of F1, highlighting the level playing field this season has fostered.
“Formula 1 is thriving right now, with teams having a more equal opportunity to compete. It’s not solely about budget; it’s about the talent and infrastructure behind the teams. The top four teams are separated by just a few tenths, making both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships more equitable,” he added.
This race also marks Sainz’s final appearance with Ferrari before transitioning to Williams for the upcoming season, even as he faces what he has termed a “mission impossible.”
