Marc Genet: It is a great honor to work with Ferrari

      Before the Spanish Grand Prix, Marc Genet, a former Formula 1 racer who has worked with Ferrari for many years as a test driver and brand ambassador, spoke about the track, Formula 1 and Ferrari.…

      Q: Mark, what can you say about the characteristics of the Barcelona circuit?Marc Genet: The drivers like this track, especially its updated version. It's still a relatively slow track, but recent updates have made it even more interesting. For example, Turn 10 has become very fast, now you can overtake there, and the last two turns have returned to the configuration that was used in 1991. It's fun and challenging to compete there now, especially with today's cars.

      From a technical point of view, the track is demanding in terms of the efficiency of aerodynamics and mechanics, tires and engine, as riders drive the long main straight with the accelerator pedal fully depressed. In Barcelona, every detail is subjected to a variety of loads, and all technical departments have a lot to work on before this race! Therefore, the track is often used for testing, and the teams bring new items to evaluate them.

      Question: What do you think about modern Formula 1, in terms of technology and entertainment?Marc Genet: Formula 1 is in great shape, including technically. Power plants are extremely complex and efficient. A few years ago, it was hard to believe that a 1.6-liter engine could produce 1,000 horsepower. The same can be said about the chassis, about the incredible downforce generated by the bottom. The racers say it's really cool to drive these cars!

      The current cars are very big and very heavy, so I'm interested to see what will change with the new regulations next year, when the cars become more compact and lighter.

      As for the show, Formula 1 is experiencing a golden age, opening itself up to a whole new audience, which has made it incredibly popular all over the world. The popularity of Formula 1 is growing rapidly, there are no empty seats in the stands, a new audience of young fans is emerging, and this creates tremendous energy.

      Question: You have been working with Ferrari for over 20 years. How does it feel to represent such a brand all over the world?Marc Genet: Not a day goes by that I don't feel very lucky, that it's a privilege to work for Ferrari.

      It's a dream come true for Enzo Ferrari that continues to this day. This is a team that has won more than any other in the history of the sport. It's the pride of belonging to this incredible team that every driver dreams of, as exemplified by Lewis. This is the passion that all our employees put into their work every day. This passion is rewarded by the support of the Tifosi, who are always there, no matter what happens, and they deserve to be thanked for making Ferrari truly special.