Ferrari showed off the SF-23 in a launch event earlier today, which included on track footage of the car at Fiorano.
The car retains a similar look to last year’s design, though features more exposed carbon fibre for weight saving. The shade of red does also appear to be lighter than last year’s car.
Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc remain as Ferrari’s drivers for this season, with the latter having previously worked with new Team Principal Frederic Vasseur at Sauber in 2018.
Ferrari returned to the front of the grid last year after a couple of years in the midfield. After a strong start to the season, they were eventually beaten by Red Bull to the Constructor’s championship.
Image Credit: ferrari.com
They will be hoping that the SF-23 is the car to win them their first world championship since 2008. Leclerc was certainly impressed with the car, describing the car as “special”, and saying “the car was running well, smooth, everything went really well.”
He also expressed his interest in ending Ferrari’s 16 year drought. He said “Last year was a good step forward. We need to do just the same this year and hopefully get that championship.
“We have done a great job trying to address the weaknesses that there were on the car and hopefully it will be better this season.”
Many were impressed by the quality of the launch itself, including Frederic Vasseur. He said he’s “more than proud” of the event, and that it was the “best way to start the season.”
There are only two more teams left to reveal their 2023 challengers. Mercedes launch the W14 tomorrow, whilst Alpine reveal the A523 on Thursday.
