Ferrari Report – A Double Sign of Invincibility?

The Scuderia Ferrari has once again made an impact. The Italian team performed magnificently this weekend in Bahrain, securing pole position on Saturday and achieving a one-two finish, their second of the season already, this Sunday.

The F2008, after taking the lead at the first corner, were rarely challenged, except by Hamilton’s McLaren. The first European result is therefore very encouraging. The numerous aerodynamic improvements are undoubtedly a significant factor, but the team wants to continue progressing to distance themselves from the competition, which is very tight this year.

Kimi Räikkönen – 1st:

« It would be difficult to do better than that! The pole yesterday and today the victory, with Felipe [Massa] in second place as well. We are also leading in both championships…

The weekend went very well and we got here what we came for. Certainly, the victory was not easy, but what matters is the ten points scored.

My start wasn’t perfect but afterwards I was able to control. The two safety cars complicated things a bit, especially in terms of strategy, but in the end, everything went well. The car also performed very well: it was well balanced.

« About Heikki [Kovalainen]’s accident, I was really relieved when the team told me he was okay! »

Felipe Massa – 2nd:

« Eight points are scored and that’s the most important thing. I had a good start and I was able to overtake Alonso, then I was very close to Kimi [Räikkönen] but I couldn’t pass him. I knew I was pitting one lap before him, so I think I did the maximum with the conditions given to me. I would have liked to win, like in Bahrain. »

« Here, the rules prohibiting traction control haven’t changed much regarding overtaking. They are almost impossible, hence the importance of having secured good qualifications. »

Stefano Domenicali – Chief Executive Officer:

« We are obviously thrilled with this result, the best one can achieve in F1. It rewards all the work the team puts in, so I want to thank the work of Maranello for that.

« Now, we must continue in this direction, paying attention to every detail. Our opponents are very strong and one detail can prevent us from securing a victory. »

Luca Baldisserri – Technical Director:

« It’s a very satisfying double for the team, and it’s already the second of the season.

« In general, the GP of Barcelona is the one that determines the hierarchy for the European Grand Prix, and it seems that we have a slight advantage. Therefore, as long as we do not make any mistakes, we can be optimistic. »