For Alesi in 2023, it will be Ferrari against Adrian Newey
The 2022 season brought about new regulations and major technical advancements in Formula 1. Red Bull managed to adapt to these new rules and constraints to have the best car on the grid throughout the season. This achievement is largely credited to Adrian Newey, who is considered Ferrari's main rival by Jean Alesi.
Ferrari was able to capitalize on the new regulations introduced in 2022 by producing a car that was superior to the competition at the start of the championship. However, the technical expertise and development mastery of Adrian Newey allowed him to make the RB18 more performant than its Italian rival after only a few races. The qualities of the technical director of the Austrian team enable Red Bull to compete against its competitors throughout the year. This is a point that Jean Alesi raises, having observed throughout his career the ultra-performant cars designed by Adrian Newey.
Ever since F1 announced new rules and engineers were given freedom, Newey has been making a difference, assures the former Scuderia Ferrari driver to RacingNews365.com.
« Newey has become the decisive factor because he is able, like no other, to continue improving the car throughout the season, even if it’s just small changes. Ultimately, these are small gains.
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According to Jean Alesi, the 2023 season looks more like a battle between Ferrari and Adrian Newey, much like a duel between their two top drivers. While there will certainly be fierce battles on the track between Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen, their cars will play a significant role in this ultimate fight.
That’s why I don’t think it will be a battle between Verstappen and Leclerc, but fundamentally between Newey and Ferrari. If he comes up with another masterpiece, everything will still be very difficult this year. On the other hand, if this year’s Red Bull car has any flaws or weaknesses, things could change.
