Binotto: 2019 Ferrari is not a revolution

Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto says that the team's new Formula 1 car is not a revolution compared to its predecessor, the SF71H.

Ferrari launched its 2019 challenger in Maranello on Friday morning, showcasing it in a revised red and black livery with a matte finish. The team will be hoping that 2019 will be the year it can dethrone Mercedes, who is unbeaten in the turbo hybrid era.

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The Italian marque put up a strong fight in 2018, but fell short in the second half of the year. Its 2018 car was able to challenge the Silver Arrows at most races, leaving Ferrari to not drastically change its thinking on the design heading into the new year.

“I think starting with 2018, we got really good achievements, and I think this car is a development of that year’s car. It’s not a revolution,” Binotto said.

"I think we simply tried to push again and raise the bar, to raise the level, try to be as extreme as we could. There are a few things that are straightforward: the front wing, that’s for the technical regulations last time.

"But I think if you look at it in all the details, certainly, the roll hoop is very narrow and very slim. If you look as well at the bodywork on the back, it’s very, very slim.

"That is as well thanks to the entire job which you cannot see because it’s below, but in terms of engine installation, power unit installation, packaging, a lot of effort has been done.

“I think the final car is the result of all this effort. We like it!”

Binotto was appointed team principal over the winter break after Ferrari decided to part ways with Maurizio Arrivabene. The team has also tweaked its line-up, bringing in Charles Leclerc to partner Sebastian Vettel.

Speaking at the launch, four-time world champion Vettel said: "Mattia has been part of this team longer than most in the room. He’s been around a long, long time, obviously we worked together the last five years as well. It will be a new way to work together but I’m looking forward to it.

“And for Charles, again, he’s been racing his whole life. Certainly it’s a big step to join Ferrari, but I think he’s also very, very excited. I’m looking forward to this year. I think the team is on the right path and hopefully we can continue improving.”