On the eve of the Belgian Grand Prix, Ferrari chief Luigi Fraboni spoke about his role in the team and the details of preparing for the podium at the circuit in Spa.
Q: What is your role at Ferrari and how did you get into motorsport?
Luigi Frabonic: I am the head of the power plant operation and electronics department. The group I lead assembles combustion engines, turbines, batteries, electric motors and other electronic components. I also supervise testing, in which various parts of the power plant are tested for efficiency and reliability. We perform a run-in of several units before they are used on the track.
My love for racing and Ferrari started when I was a kid in 1979 when I was lucky enough to visit the old Ferrari headquarters. It was an incredible experience and I remember it as well as yesterday.
While studying engineering at university, Ferrari brought me to Gestione Sportiva’s mechanics to write a dissertation. After working for a short while in another company, and then I got a call from Maranello – I didn’t hesitate for a second about the offer and gladly took it.
Q: Tell us about the features of the track in the Spa?
Luigi Frabonic: A classic Formula 1 circuit, one of the most popular among racers and fans. The circuit is unique in that it contains very long straights as well as medium and slow corners. As a result, it is very difficult to find the optimal aerodynamic balance.
In Friday practice it is important to do all the tests to find a compromise between maximum speed on the straights and efficient cornering. In addition, it is important to take into account the probability of rain – this factor is difficult to predict, but also affects the settings of the machine. As a result, qualifications and races are often unpredictable.
The most exciting part of the track is the Eau Rouge-Raidillon connection – a fast hill climb with a blind exit from the corner. It will be interesting to see how the new generation of machines will perform.
Question: What burdens fall on the power station on the Belgian railway?
Luigi Frabonic: The track is very difficult for the bike in terms of reliability. The round is the longest on the calendar, making it one of the longest weekend rounds of the season. Very long straight lines put a strain on all engine components, so stage preparation is carried out using special tests.
When we talk about speed, just like in Monza, the engine power is of great importance. Controlling fuel consumption also has a major impact on the result, including in qualifying.
Ascents and descents, especially the Eau Rouge-Raidillon, can have a critical impact on the power plant’s cooling and lubrication systems, so these systems also require special calibration during Friday practices.
Source: F1 News
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