McLaren team boss Andrea Stella stated that Ferrari now has the strongest chassis in Formula 1 after the Scuderia's major upgrades at the Barcelona Grand Prix, where Lewis Hamilton claimed his first victory for the team.
Stella pointed to clear indications from the race that the upgraded Ferrari SF-26 is the fastest car through corners, especially in medium-speed sections. He noted that Mercedes still holds the overall advantage due to its more powerful power unit.
Ferrari arrived in Barcelona with the most extensive upgrade package on the grid. The changes included a revised front wing and nose assembly, a significant floor redesign, updates to the diffuser and sidepod bodywork, all aimed at increasing downforce and improving aerodynamic efficiency.
Stella expects Ferrari to remain competitive at the Austrian Grand Prix in two weeks. He added that McLaren must focus on adding aerodynamic grip and improving tyre exploitation to close the gap.
"I think this race gives us very clear indications," Stella said. "I think these indications are that Ferrari, at the moment, is the car with the best chassis."
