Ferrari switch F1 car for test amid rule confusion

The Italian outfit announced it would be conducting a four-day private test at the Ferrari-owned Fiorano circuit this week, with Charles Leclerc, Carlos Sainz and test driver Robert Shwartzman all getting behind the wheel of its 2021 F1 car, the SF21. 

However, Ferrari has since confirmed it has switched to using its 2018-spec SF71H challenger after seeking clarity over F1’s testing rules from the governing body.

That is to avoid a potential breach of this year’s testing regulations, which have not yet been agreed or passed between the teams and the FIA. The matter is set to be discussed at the next meeting of the F1 Commission in early February. 

In the past, teams have been prevented from conducting private tests using cars from the previous season. 

"This morning, the test programme which Scuderia Ferrari was due to carry out, starting today at the Fiorano track has been changed,” a Ferrari statement read. 

“While awaiting an update from the FIA as to how rules relating to “Test Previous Cars,” which establish the criteria for which cars can be used in this type of test, are being applied for 2022, the decision has been taken to use a 2018 SF71H car. 

“Further details on the test programme will follow later.” 

Shwartzman is scheduled to be in action on Tuesday and round-off Ferrari’s programme on Friday, with race drivers Leclerc and Sainz splitting driving duties on Wednesday and Thursday respectively. 

AlphaTauri is also holding a private test on Tuesday, with Pierre Gasly driving the team's AT01 at Imola.