Ferrari showed their hand to the Formula One world yesterday by unveiling the new car which they are convinced will help them recapture their glory years. The famed Italian outfit, who have won 15 World Championship drivers' title, won just one race last season, finishing 102 points behind Brawn in the constructors' championship. It is a scenario they do not want to repeat and drivers Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa stood by the new F10 car in upbeat mood yesterday at the team's Maranello base.
The team's technical director, Aldo Costa, revealed the F10, which has been built around the double diffuser at the rear and a larger fuel tank, represents a "big step forward" on the previous model. With more aerodynamic upgrades planned, Alonso is hoping it will lead him to a third world title. "We are ready to face the challenge and take up the responsibility of realising the maximum potential of this car," he said.
"Felipe and I will be a very strong team, and we hope we will make all the Ferrari supporters around the world very proud to see this car winning the championship." Icy conditions meant Massa was unable to test the car on the Fiorano track yesterday, but he cannot wait to get back to his duties after recovering from life-threatening head injuries following a crash at the Hungarian Grand Prix in July.
"I am proud and very happy, and feel that I want to work more than ever," said the Brazilian. The team principal, Stefano Domenicali, claimed the return of Massa, who finished second to Lewis Hamilton in the 2008 championship, was like having two new drivers in the team. "With Felipe we are talking of a new version of Felipe," he added. "Felipe has all the assets to prove he can be very successful."