Photos: Ferrari

As the Austrian GP is just around the corner, Formula 1 teams will be taking many precautions to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. The FIA ​​has reduced working hours for the teams since working on a race weekend in the summer during a pandemic will be much more tiring for the engineers.  

Ferrari’s sporting director, Laurent Mekies, explains to Corriere how Ferrari's organization will change during a race weekend in the time of COVID-19: “Each team can carry a maximum of 80 people, of these 60 are engineers and technicians.” “The mechanics of Charles's car will not work with those of Seb's car and vice versa. The order is to limit interactions." Only when it is absolutely necessary, e.g. when they need an engine change, they are allowed to help each other.

Laurent Mekies added: "The biggest challenge will be for the guys in the garage who will always have to put on a protective device, different from what they are used before. They trained, but doing it on a race weekend in the summer will be much more tiring. This is why we have planned more breaks.”    

What if a team member gets tested positive during a race weekend? "We have increased medical support on the spot; he/she will be assisted and treated. Those who have come into contact with the person will be tested. To allow the activities to continue, we have reservations in Maranello ready to leave for Austria if the situation requires it. Let's hope we won't need it.” 

In case either Charles or Seb won't be able to race during a race weekend, Giovinazzi would be the one replacing either of them. Ferrari already discussed this with Alfa Romeo. The team does seem well prepared to handle this situation. What about the car, the upgrades? Check the next article!