NewsOnF1 - The Erratic Genius of Ferrari

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Dear Heretic: I think your analysis of the failure of the Williams strategy is plausible enough; Ralf certainly is able to challenge Michael in so far as equipment is concerned. I remember, though, remarking to you last year that the very detailed and thorough preparation so typical of the Teutonic Mercedes/West people at McLaren is unbeatable --IF EVERYTHING GOES AS PLANNED. But the erratic genius of Ferrari is at adapting to what is actually happening on the track in real time. Not coincidentally (but ironically, none the less) this is precisely the genius of Michael's driving and it is reflected in his record. He doesn't win because he has the fastest car or the best set up; he wins because he does what he needs to do in every corner and between every corner to win. The running back on a "borrowed" scooter is pure Michael. Can you see Mika doing it?
Thanks for your continued even-handedness; keep it up - Jim W - USA
(Reference Heretic 3-20)

The Heretic replies:

Jim,

I think that we are in fact seeing the best of both worlds in Ferrari:

"The erratic genius" as you call it of Ross Brawn and an adaptable Teutonic perfectionist in Michael.

Michael's motor handling skills are very good but so is every other driver in F1. It is a perquisite to even be considered in F2, F3, F3000 etc. His skills may be better than the rest but if so it is very marginal.

Where Michael shines is in his ability to concentrate sporadically on driving, when needed, and to spend the rest of the time preparing himself, and planning for potential developments or possible outcomes. I believe that he is capable of switching from the one to the other as the need or the opportunity occurs. A bit like a computer that multi-threads, not everything at the same time but whatever has his attention gets all of his concentration. The man thinks like a machine and does not allow himself any emotion while working.

Michael is the perfect counterpart of Brawn who at any stage of the race is focusing on what it will take to win from there rather than trying to make a strategy fit to circumstances. Brawn does not allow preconceived strategies (regardless of how valid they seemed at the time) to influence what it will take to win from now. Michael has the ability to totally switch plans with instant commitment and total focus - just like that machine.

So, I only slightly disagree with you. Ferrari has their Teutonic side as well. On the other hand it is frustrating to see how often McLaren are unable to rapidly decide or adapt to race dynamics - they certainly lack the ability to deal with the unexpected.

Yes - total focus. I can just see Michael thinking "So this is where I am. What will win this race is to start first. To start I have to get to the spare car. To get there I need transport. I wonder who the owner of that scooter is?" - Mika on the other hand will despair first and then think back on what he could have done, probably when all is lost.

Thank you for the compliments - soon my head won't fit the helmet..