After finishing sixth in the 2020 Constructors’ Championship – the team’s worst result since 1980 – Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto has said he is expecting the Scuderia to have a considerably stronger campaign next year.
Commenting on Ferrari’s 2021 power unit, Binotto said it is performing well on the dyno and they are expecting a significant increase in engine performance.
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“The engine is running well on the dyno. In terms of performance, it has progressed well. We will not be the lowest in the field,” he said.
Continuing, he commented on Charles Leclerc’s strong 2020 season and said he developed as a driver despite the difficult circumstances.
“We know that Charles is a very talented driver. He has been always very fast, he is good in racing, overtaking, defending.
“As I often say, even if it has been a difficult season on track for him, he has developed as a person and as a leader.
“I’m very happy with Charles Leclerc’s attitude. I’m happy with how he has grown. I think he has all the tools to do well in the next season.
“He has grown a lot this season, maybe even more than last year,” Binotto added.
Meanwhile, Carlos Sainz, who will race alongside Leclerc at Ferrari next season after parting ways with McLaren, said he is hopeful that he and his new team-mate will be able to help Ferrari return to its former glory:
“I believe that Charles is incredibly talented. We will work together in the same direction to bring Ferrari back to the top!”
Leclerc also praised his team-mate and was equally optimistic of Ferrari’s ability to make progress and work its way back up the pecking order.
“I am happy to see Carlos in red. With such a talent like him, I am sure we will push each other to the maximum!
“We are working very hard and well for 2021 and there are positive news. I am optimistic [for next season]!” Leclerc added.
Earlier, Binotto said Ferrari won’t go into the new season with a designated number one driver, so Sainz and Leclerc will be free to race each other.
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