Ferrari returns to WEC action this weekend at Fuji Speedway, Japan, buoyed by their first win of the season with the #50 car in Austin. But the Maranello squad is not getting carried away. They know Fuji is Toyota's home turf, and their primary mission is to stay in the title fight.
The victory in Texas was a huge morale boost, following a strong second-place finish in Brazil back in July. Now, the real challenge awaits: a circuit that has historically not suited the characteristics of the 499P. Antonello Coletta, Ferrari's Endurance boss, shared his thoughts.
“We arrive in Japan happy to have returned to victory in the recent Austin race, and to have once again demonstrated our competitiveness not only in America but also in Brazil where we took a solid second place in July. Now it's Fuji's turn: we know it will be a difficult race for us, but the team will face it with tenacity and attention to every detail, with the goal of staying in the World Championship fight and keeping the game open until the last two European races,” said Coletta.
Technical Director Ferdinando Cannizzo echoed those sentiments, highlighting the difference between Fuji and Austin. “The race at Fuji represents a very different challenge because the Japanese circuit has not been one of the most favourable to our car's characteristics in the past. However, in recent months we have shown consistent growth, both in terms of the 499P's performance and operationally,” he explained.
Ferrari is indeed on an upward trajectory. The 499P is becoming more competitive, and the team is maturing in race execution. Nevertheless, Cannizzo stressed they cannot be complacent. “We arrive in Japan aware that we can be competitive, but also with the humility and determination required because we expect several rivals will be just as competitive. In this context, our goal is to confirm the level of execution the team has shown so far this season, maximise the result, and collect important points for the championships,” he added.
The 6 Hours of Fuji will be a true test for Ferrari. Toyota, racing in front of their home crowd, will be desperate to bounce back after their Texas disappointment. The pressure will be immense, but Ferrari has the confidence and experience to handle it. If they can maximise their potential without getting drawn into emotional battles, they could return with valuable points.
One thing is clear: Ferrari is not in Japan just to make up the numbers. They have a clear mission: stay in the championship hunt. And as Coletta said, “keeping the game open until the last two European races” is a target they must achieve, no matter what happens at Fuji.
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