Formula 1 Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto reveals that the power gap to Mercedes is ‘not so dramatic' anymore—all thanks to their recent upgrades.

Ever since Ferrari's power unit scandal in 2019, the Scuderia has struggled to keep up with other teams around the paddock in terms of raw power or straight-line speed—which they were once heavily favored in. Their scandal led to a horrible 2020 season which saw the Prancing Horses finish at a mediocre 6th place in the constructors' championship.

However, through hard work done at the Maranello factory, Ferrari was able to make massive strides in terms of performance this season. Through various research and development, the team has got back into the fray among the top teams of the sport—they're currently fighting for a 3rd place finish in the 2021 constructors' championship against a resurgent McLaren team.

Amid making claims that they have stopped development for this year's car, Ferrari recently fitted a new power unit for both Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc in hopes of finishing the season on a high note. Binotto notes that their performance at the U.S. Grand Prix is a testament to how much the team has improved since 2020.

Via Philip Clereen of Motorsport:

“Considering last year, how the situation was, it is certainly a big step forward. We still know that there is a gap to the best engine today, but we believe that gap is not so dramatic.”

Binotto adds, “I think on the paper it was not a circuit which was suiting obviously our car. That's why I'm pleased with the progress I've seen in the last races, certainly the help of the power unit both for qualifying and the race, and that gives me some confidence for the next races.”

Ferrari fans will be hopeful their consistent form carries on to the final few races to regain their place among the top 3 teams in Formula 1.