Ferrari launches 2010 challenger

RichardsF1    Formula 1, Launches     Ferrari

Ferrari’s 2010 championship contender, dubbed the F10, has been unveiled at a launch ceremony at its Maranello HQ.

The first of the team’s to unveil its definite 2010 design, it will be followed by McLaren, who will reveal their 2010 challenger tomorrow.

Team Principal Stefano Domenicali introduced the car to the waiting media throng, and also present were the team’s drivers Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa, reserve driver Giancarlo Fisichella and test drivers Luca Badoer and Marc Gené.

The F10 has been a long time in design and production, with its design concept started midway through the 2009 season when the team suspended further development on its underperforming 2009 car.

Immediately noticeable is the aggressive sidepod sculpting and intricate front wing work, in addition to a small fin on top of the engine cover. The other key distinction is the new Santander livery adorning the front and rear wings, mirrors and sidepods.

The team has understandably high hopes for this year’s championship after a difficult 2009. Domenicalli was quick to stress the team’s goals when he addressed the press.

"This championship will be very important for us," Domenicali said. "The last championship, for different reasons, was not very positive, that is why we are dealing with this one looking to be competitive – and this is what Ferrari deserves to have.

"We have two new drivers, why two new drivers? Fernando is a twice world champion and we will say after the second one he will have a third one. He already appears among the big champions in F1, it is the right moment for him, for us, he wants to be successful and we want to repeat what the team concept is in our group.

"We [have] a new version of Felipe. After such a dramatic championship like last year with the accident in Hungary and such a fantastic season, Felipe has all the assets to prove that he is a very successful one, he can prove that he wants to restart his pathway that destiny interrupted it in Hungary. Good luck to both of them."

Massa will be the first of the team’s drivers to take to the track, and will perform some demonstration laps on the Fiorano circuit for filming and promotion purposes.

[Images via ITV-F1]