However, since this season marks the 3rd consecutive year in which neither of the two teams are regarded as benchmark-like competitors in the Great Circus, Ferrari's president Luca di Montezemolo believes it's time F1 returned to its roots. What that means is Ferrari is now pushing for a change of strategy in terms of F1 future, focused on mechanical and engine development rather than bodywork tweaks.
“Currently 80 percent of the performance depends on the aerodynamic, which is too much,” said di Montezemolo in an interview with Italy's Gazzetta dello Sport. “The wind tunnels operate all the time but F1 is also about the mechanical, the engines. This F1 does not sit well with me.”
Additionally, the Ferrari boss urged the FIA to reconsider its testing ban policy in the series, as teams in any professional sport should be allowed to train and improve in between official clashes. However, the FIA and the FOTA (Formula One Teams Association) would have to come up with a plan to reintroduce in-season testing with a close eye on costs
“Also absurd is that we are the only professional sport in the world where you cannot practice. Testing should be reintroduced, paying close attention to costs,” added di Montezemolo.
As for his team's behavior so far in the 2011 campaign, the Italian official backed Ferrari to return stronger in China.
“I know everyone is working flat out and I have great faith in the human and technical strengths of our people. I believe the period when the most we can hope for is a podium will soon come to an end,” he added.
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