Stefano Domenicali has re-iterated that Ferrari needs to improve its qualifying form, and added that new updates could be ready as early as this weekend.
The team boss said on the team’s website today that there was still a lot to be pleased about after Malaysia.
“The main problem we need to deal with is our performance the day before the race in qualifying which is not at the same level as the teams that are currently best,” said Domenicali. “It is vital for us to react immediately, because we have seen how rapidly things can change in Formula 1.
“In terms of strategy we can say our race in Sepang was a good one, because our choices proved to be the right ones and the fact we were unable to bring home more points was down to other causes. So strategy and race performance are two positive factors.
“Felipe drove to a very high standard, showing a return to form and Fernando was very aggressive, which is always good for a driver.”
Domenicali said aero performance is the key to improving the car: “Back at the factory we have to have a big push to understand our lack of performance. We need to push a lot to upgrade our aero package because aerodynamics is the key to it all.
“We will try and bring as quickly as possible the upgrades, maybe already in China, that we require. We need to understand as soon as possible why the performance on track has not matched the figures coming out of the wind tunnel.
“If we have not a clear picture, then we need to change the direction of the work we are doing in terms of development. The other important factor is to keep on increasing our understanding of how to use the tyres, because we saw in Malaysia that this is another area that makes a difference.
“As for KERS, I cannot talk about it in general, but certainly for us it is a useful aid in terms of boosting car performance. Then, when it comes to the race, it can be used either to attack another driver or to defend your own position. Therefore it is an interesting addition to the sport.”
Adam Cooper F1 