Ferrari CEO Louis Camilleri has backed the “tightly-knit” team to “flourish” in 2019 and challenge for Formula 1’s titles.
Ferrari is in the midst of a decade-long title drought but its 2018 campaign was the most successful since its 2008 championship, as it took six wins and finished runner-up to Mercedes.
Ferrari has undergone significant changes in the last 12 months, with Camilleri appointed CEO in the wake of Sergio Marchionne’s sudden death last July, while Mattia Binotto has been promoted to the role of Team Principal, in place of Maurizio Arrivabene.
The team also has a refreshed driver line-up, with protégé Charles Leclerc stepping up to partner Sebastian Vettel, having impressed during his rookie campaign in 2018.
Ferrari’s SF90H was unveiled during a launch ceremony at its Maranello base on Friday morning, with Camilleri outlining his belief in the squad’s potential.
“Last season was our best one in the last 10 years, yet we fell short of our objectives,” he said.
“Such a setback is never easy to swallow, but we look ahead with strong commitment and determination.
“We begin a new exciting chapter in our history, led by Mattia, who has been with Ferrari for about a quarter of a century.
“His stellar career over that period is clear testament to his exceptional abilities and leadership skills. He knows the Scuderia inside out, he’s very much a team player, decisive, talented, and determined to make a huge different at all levels.
“I have every confidence he will lead the Scuderia to ever greater heights.
“We of course also have the privilege of two extraordinary drivers.
“Despite his four world titles Sebastian Vettel remains as hungry as ever for victory and I know that he is totally devoted to achieve his and our ambitions and he knows full well that the entire team will give him all their wholehearted support.
“Alongside Sebastian will be Charles Leclerc; we’re all tremendously excited to have him on board.
“His sheer talent, maturity, race skill and speed, was evident to all last year, and we are sure that great things wait him in the future.”
Camilleri also emphasised the atmosphere he hopes will prevail at Ferrari this season, explaining: “The atmosphere within the team will be one in which serenity will prevail.
“It is a pre-condition to a tightly-knit team where creativity, talent and transparency will flourish.”
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