How Ferrari aced their Suzuka strategies · RaceFans

Ferrari arrived at Japanese Grand Prix in high spirits after ending Red Bull’s stranglehold on the top step of the podium in the previous round in Australia, courtesy of Carlos Sainz Jnr

But although Sainz had been the closest to the world champions on the grid at Albert Park, he was unable to take a front row grid slot in Japan, lining up behind Max Verstappen, Sergio Perez and even Lando Norris in one of the McLarens.

Team mate Charles Leclerc was even lower down the grid in eighth after a qualifying session where he just couldn’t find any more time out of his car or his tyres. But by the end of the 52-lap grand prix, both Ferrari drivers were the highest-placed of Red Bull’s rivals.

This was despite both Sainz and Leclerc admitting they had doubts about the team’s strategy at times. As ever, Ferrari’s radio communications through the race provided a fascinating insight into the mindset of the two drivers and the team itself.

Although both drivers had moments where they were unsure about whether they were on the quickest path to the chequered flag, both ultimately agreed they achieved as good a result as they could have expected.

Early strategy suggestions

Both Ferraris used new medium tyres for the start of the grand prix, which was red flagged on the opening lap following the crash between Daniel Ricciardo and Alexander Albon. While some of their rivals opted to switch to hards for the restart, both Sainz and Leclerc instead put on another new set of mediums instead, which they were both asked to conserve.

While many teams further back chose to pit early and take advantage of the very effective undercut effect at Suzuka to gain track position and clean air, Ferrari were instead happy to try and go a reasonable distance with both drivers, even if they suggested they were feeling the effects of tyre wear.