Ferrari have sparked outrage among fans with the unveiling of their SF21 car for the 2021 Formula One season, after a 'last-minute' decision to add neon green to the traditional red and black livery. The Italian team revealed the car on Wednesday, the final team to do so ahead of pre-season testing in Bahrain.
The green Mission Window branding on the engine cover drew heavy criticism on social media, with fans branding it 'the worst looking car on the grid'. One fan wrote: 'Somehow they've messed up their classic livery, looks like someone vomited on the engine cover.' Another added: 'The fat nose with the green makes it the worst looking car on the grid in my opinion.'
Drivers Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz confirmed the green was a late addition, appearing only 'one week or so ago'. Sainz said in the reveal video: 'We didn't expect the green.' Leclerc added: 'It was a last-minute change. I have to say I'm getting used to it, seeing it on the car.'
Despite the aesthetic controversy, Ferrari are focused on performance improvements after their worst season in 40 years. A completely new power unit has been designed, along with revised aerodynamics and a modified rear end. Team Principal Mattia Binotto said: 'After a difficult season last year, we know that we have to come good in this championship.'
Pre-season testing begins in Bahrain on Friday, with the first grand prix on 28 March. Binotto also confirmed there is no driver hierarchy between Leclerc and Sainz, stating: 'First we need to catch up with our competitors.'
