Pat Fry brings his colleagues from McLaren to Ferrari

Indeed, the president of Ferrari acknowledged that his team lacked key skills in an increasingly critical area of competitiveness in F1: aerodynamics, as he recently stated: “We have a long tradition in mechanical engineering but we do not have a tradition in aerodynamics.”

That’s why he opened his checkbook to attract talent from other teams. And this time, nationality is no longer a predominant selection criterion, as proven by the latest recruits: there is indeed the Italian Giacomo Tortora (a specialist in aerodynamics and simulation studies) but also two Britons, Chris Heal and Lawrence Hodge.

But an even more important recruit could arrive in 2013 with the transfer of Polish-born Marcin Budkowski. He has just been granted a one-year sabbatical leave by McLaren from his position as head of aerodynamic projects. Therefore, he would no longer be aware of the research work of the Woking team, allowing him to move to the competition.

So McLaren is significantly weakened before the crucial off-season testing period, while Ferrari clearly positions itself back in the title race. Luca di Montezemolo highlights the key role of Aldo Costa’s replacement as technical director: «We want a competitive car. I think Domenicali has made good improvements in the organization without revolutionizing everything. We now have responsible people who report to Domenicali: Luca Marmorini for the engine was born at Ferrari. He went to Toyota for eight years to gain experience and he is back. Then there’s Pat Fry, who is working very well. He enhances the team in areas where Ferrari has less experience. I don’t want a revolution, but I want improvements step by step every year.»

With the participation of RacingBusiness.fr