Ferrari will attempt a ‘magic trick’ with brand-new fuel at Austrian Grand Prix

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Ferrari plan to push their F1 engine to ‘unseen’ limits through their much-anticipated upgrade at the Austrian Grand Prix.

It’s been widely reported that Ferrari will introduce an engine upgrade in Spielberg after the FIA found that their engine was four to six percent off the pace. This gave them access to the ‘ADUO’ catch-up mechanism in the new regulations.

McLaren driver Lando Norris said in Barcelona that Ferrari would be ’embarrassing’ the competition with a better engine, such were the strengths of their chassis. Now they have a precious chance to prove him right.

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Ferrari double down on engine temperature gamble at Austrian Grand Prix

It emerged last month that Ferrari were channelling air into their engine at 100 degrees, while most teams were aiming for 70-80. This was costing them some efficiency, but apparently facilitated extreme aerodynamic design choices, and the team have been satisfied with the results.

Now, with their Austria upgrade, Motorsport IT say that Ferrari are pushing for a new ‘limit’ of 110 degrees, doubling down on their gamble. Linked to their new ‘higher-calorie’ Shell fuel, this has been described as a ‘magic trick’.

Clearly, Ferrari will look to close the still-considerable horsepower deficit to Mercedes, but they also recognise that they can improve straight-line performance by reducing drag. It’s a multi-faceted approach.

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There are also unconfirmed rumours that Mercedes may turn down their engine this weekend after recent battery failures. Reliability is arguably their biggest weakness right now, so it makes sense to sacrifice a small amount of performance to improve their chances of reaching the chequered flag with both cars.

If Ferrari can challenge in Austria, it will suggest they are genuine contenders for both championships. This is a circuit that should be Mercedes territory, but should their high-stakes upgrade deliver, the Scuderia could start challenging for the win everywhere.