Ferrari in Italy. Three words that ooze passion. This weekend, the house of the prancing horse competes against its own fans and, although logic indicates that the task will be arduous, hope is fueled by the positive irregularity of "yes, we can". Perhaps there is a lack of resources, perhaps in each race there is at least one problematic pit stop. Some will argue that Leclerc doesn't handle the search for prominence well, that his wrists still hesitate, or that Sainz lacks the appeal of spectacularity due to his consistency. However, it's Ferrari, and they will be in Monza. Despite the negative streak (they haven't achieved any victories this year, only settling for two podiums from Charles) and the fight for third place in the constructors' championship with Aston Martin, the scarlet men want to break the trend on their own turf, defy the odds and make the podium at Monza vibrate with the mythical notes of "Fratelli d'Italia".
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"Being a Ferrari driver in Monza is special, one of the most gratifying experiences for a racer. That's why my focus is on enjoying the present moment and recognizing the opportunity I have as a driver," stated Carlos Sainz in the previews, making it clear that the roar of the local fans, when driving a Ferrari, can eclipse the sound of the engines of the other 18 cars that will compete at the Autodromo Nazionale di Monza with the intention of frustrating Ferrari's hopes.
For this edition, the team has decided to give greater prominence to the color yellow on the car. The reason? To pay homage to the 499P Hypercar that won the World Endurance Championship on the centenary of Le Mans. Therefore, we will see the nose, the engine cover, and the drivers' numbers in yellow tone. Last year, the team already adopted yellow on the car to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the company's foundation and to honor the founder's hometown, Modena, located near Maranello.
In the face of this new choice by the team, several Italians who are fans of superstitions have pointed out that using the color yellow in these current circumstances is inviting bad luck. For many, this color is linked to misfortune, especially in the world of entertainment. Thus, it will be rare to see protagonists on television, theater, or live shows wearing this shade due to pure superstition. However, Ferrari will use it, perhaps believing that, just like superstitious people who resort to yellow to have a prosperous new year, they want to start a new countdown to their resurgence this season in Monza.
But beyond wishes and superstitions, will Ferrari be able to stand out in Monza? Fernando Alonso, of Aston Martin, has the answer: "Ferrari always surpasses itself in tests like this, with its long straights, short corners, and ultrarapid chicanes. I have competed with them on this circuit and, for some reason, you feel that the fans give you an extra second of speed compared to usual. We must not lose sight of Ferrari here,". Monza holds the record for the highest average speed in the championship (247.585 km/h) and has curves that challenge the drivers. On this track, audacious risks have generous rewards but also carry great risks. That's why it's no coincidence that this track is known as the "Temple of Speed". A temple where fans have only one devotion: to demand from their heroes to leave logic behind and seek consecration. God save Ferrari!