Giovinazzi unfazed by rise of Ferrari juniors as he targets F1 improvements

Antonio Giovinazzi says he has no concerns about potentially being jumped in the queue for a dream Formula 1 drive with Ferrari amid a rise of emerging talents from the team’s Academy.

Four members of Ferrari’s Academy scheme - Mick Schumacher, Callum Ilott, Robert Shwartzman, and Marcus Armstrong - joined 2021 race drivers Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz in a five-day test at Fiorano last week as they each stepped up preparations for the new season.

Reigning Formula 2 champion Schumacher will make his eagerly-anticipated F1 debut this year with Haas and has already been tipped as a future contender for a Ferrari drive, although there is no opening at the Scuderia until 2023 with Sainz signing a two-year deal and Leclerc contracted through to 2024.

Giovinazzi, who was overlooked for the 2021 Ferrari drive, insists his focus for the upcoming 2021 F1 season is on making further improvements at Alfa Romeo, where he occupies the seat assigned to the Italian team courtesy of their close relationship.

“For now I don’t focus on other people,” Giovinazzi told Crash.net in an exclusive interview. 

“I’m focused on myself, this is what we always do and I try to improve myself and then we will see what will happen. To focus on other drivers is not something that will make myself better, so I just focus on myself.”

While Giovinazzi admits driving for Ferrari is his ultimate dream, he is remaining focused on the task at hand in trying to help Alfa Romeo move up the grid this year.

“It’s the dream [to drive for Ferrari] but of course I know that Carlos will be there for a few years, and as well Charles,” he explained.

“You never know what will happen so for now I’m focused on doing well here at Alfa Romeo. I know that I will be driving for Alfa Romeo next season and my target now is to do well with them, and then we will see what will be happening in 2022. 

“Im part of that family as well and it’s great to feel the support from Ferrari,” Giovinazzi added. “Now I’m racing for Alfa Romeo and I want to do the best job here so far. I’m sure that I’m doing a good job here and then we will see what the future will bring.

“For now, I’m focused to have a good result here and then we will see what will happen. Of course to have the support of Ferrari is something good for my career as well.”