FORMULA 1: FERRARI’S HUGE MISTAKE?

Welcome to 2019! We did not have time to settle before information revved in that Formula 1′s scarlet warrior, Ferrari, sent its Team Principal Maurizio Arrivabene packing! We are fully aware that Ferrari embraces losing or finishing first loser, under no circumstances. Its founder, Enzo, a legend, simply would not have it.

The stories are innumerable. Drivers were tools required to navigate his machines to victory. In his mind and based on his resolute approach to preparation, the machine was always up to the task – what was required was a worthy driver to marry his machine to the checkered flag!

MERCEDES AMG

So, winning is an integral component of Ferrari’s genetic code and obviously the culture of winning and the rejection of losing are flags still flown high and with pride at Ferrari. Competing in Formula 1, in the mindset of Ferrari’s top brass, should have a single outcome – winning the championship(s).

It goes without saying therefore, that heads will roll in the speed-cartel, when a championship that was available on a golden platter, was snatched and transported by an express courier service to their arch-rival Mercedes AMG.

My focus is not on Arrivabene’s replacement, Mattia Binotto. On the contrary, a Flash Gordon-like perusal of the gentleman’s resume, will confirm that he has the requisite tools to occupy Arrivabene’s seat with zero effort.

In fact, it is suggested that his ingenuity in the department he led – the technical department – played a significant role in enhancing the machine’s ability to push Mercedes to the precipice!

LEWIS HAMILTON

The visually impaired had no difficulty seeing, that in 2018, Ferrari had Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes on the ropes, begging for the bell. I read a report which stated that Ferrari conducted an internal investigation to ascertain what was responsible for the empty trophy chamber in 2018.

Two of the conclusions arrived at based on the investigation triggered a scratch-my-head moment! Conclusion 1 – they needed a faster car to beat Mercedes. Conclusion 2 -  Vettel’s errors were as a result of him pushing harder to compensate for the shortcomings of the car. I am forced to wonder if Vettel conducted the investigation! Lol.

It was repeatedly evident, that in 2018, Ferrari had the faster car. A car which reduced Lewis Hamilton to a distorted mess at Spa. At some time, hopefully in the not too distant future, Ferrari and all its stakeholders will realise, that in 2018, the championship was always destined for Maranello, until they were ambushed and slaughtered by a superior driver, who is driven by an inherent force that inhales competition and exhales victory!

BINOTTO

It is my view that Arrivabene paid the ultimate price for Vettel’s shortcomings. Arrivabene is now confined to a page in Ferrari’s colourful F1 history book. Binotto is now Team Boss. The main reason Ferrari claimed no title in 2018 – Vettel – remains the driver in charge of Maranello’s fate.

Did Ferrari make a huge mistake? Did they fire the wrong man?

Formula 1′s 2019 season is not far away. Time will tell.

Cecil Munroe Gleaner On-Line Writer