Formula 1 "needs Ferrari" to be competitive - Domenicali

New Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has stated the sport "needs Ferrari" to be competitive in the future following its dismal 2020 season.

The Scuderia finished sixth in the standings with just 131 points after struggling to find pace with its power unit, often languishing behind the main midfield battle between McLaren, Racing Point and Renault.

Domenicali, who spent seven seasons as Ferrari team principal between 2008 and 2014, suggested his former team would be improved this year due to developments to the engine.

"As a matter of what I was to Ferrari and what I am today, my position is that we need Ferrari to be in the show, in the right dimension, the right way," he told Sky Sports F1.

"They have passed through a difficult time, no doubt. They need to find the right way to go back on track.

"This year, I am expecting them to be better than last year for sure because they had the time to at least work on the engine that was inside what is allowed with the possible development work within the technical regulation."

Charles Leclerc is joined by ex-McLaren driver Carlos Sainz at a noticeably young line-up that does not feature a world champion for just the third time since 1996.

Domenicali revealed Sainz has settled well at the team's base since making the switch at the start of the year.

"For sure, there is a lot of attention because Charles Leclerc is an incredible driver," he added.

"Carlos Sainz, I can see and from what I hear, is really starting the first days in Maranello with the right approach.

"I think even Toto [Wolff] and Christian [Horner] would like to see Ferrari fighting for the championship."

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