Ferrari says its impending update at Formula 1’s Russian Grand Prix will “not change the big picture” of its worst championship effort in 40 years.
Ferrari finished runner-up in the championship across the past three years, challenging for the title in 2017 and 2018, but it has plunged into the midfield this season.
The marque has struggled with the aerodynamic performance of its SF1000 while it has also suffered in straight-line speed in the aftermath of its private settlement with the FIA.
Charles Leclerc salvaged podiums earlier in the season but its performance has worsened in recent rounds.
It failed to score at the power-heavy Spa and Monza circuits and added only five points to its tally at Mugello, holding sixth in the Constructors’ Championship.
Leclerc and Vettel finished the most recent race ahead of only Williams’ George Russell and Haas driver Romain Grosjean, who was competing in a damaged car.
“There will be small upgrades, but this will not change the big picture,” confirmed team boss Mattia Binotto.
“I think we are at the moment out of pace in the race, and we are somehow wearing too much the tyres.
“So the upgrades will not be the ones that address it.
“I think on our side we need to review the projects, with the view of 2021. I think it will take some more time to do it.”
Ferrari has not finished a grand prix season outside of the top five in the Constructors’ Championship since 1980.
