Scuderia Ferrari Accuses Other F1 Teams of Copying Their Design

Over the course of the 2019 season, Scuderia Ferrari have had a number of allegations levelled at them over their pace in the latter part of the season. However, Ferrari are turning the tables with their own accusations.

Team principal Mattia Binotto is of the opinion that many of their rivals have imitated some elements of their SF90. His primary grouse was that they were copying the car’s radical front wing concept.

It was worth noting that Ferrari and customer team, Alfa Romeo took contrasting approaches to the new front-wing regulations for 2019.

Initially, Ferrari was hurt by being unable to put down power from its engine in the corners. However, once they fitted an update to the front wing and floor, they romped to four straight pole positions, and three victories from those races.

According to Binotto, the upgrade in Singapore was possible due to next year’s design. He even went as far as to suggest that other teams are trying to adapt their design..

He said: “On the current car, the regulations being the same for next year it will certainly be of interest.

“Whatever we are building on this season, in terms of understanding, will be key for next year as well.

“That’s why we are still focusing or putting effort on 2019, not only because we’re seeking victories but because we know that a good understanding of the overall car performance in this season will be to the benefit of next season.”

He noted that developing an efficient car is vital for fuel economy and speed. The Italian also admitted that there were extraneous reasons for not performing as expected.

The Ferrari team principal mused, “By the time the weaknesses were addressed we can be quite competitive and I think the last races have shown it.”