Why Ferrari remain happy despite 2019 disappointment

Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto says the atmosphere around Maranello remains "happy" despite the team's perceived struggles in 2019 so far.

After a strong showing in pre-season testing, Ferrari and Sebastian Vettel were pegged as many onlookers' favourites for title success this year.

However, the Scuderia are yet to win a single race heading into the summer break, with Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton sitting on dominant leads in each championship as a sixth title double looks a certainty for the Silver Arrows.

If Hamilton and Mercedes can see out the job, it would break Ferrari's Schumacher-era record for successive title successes.

Having taken the reins from Maurizio Arrivabene at the start of the year, Binotto admits 2019 has been difficult for Ferrari, but he is sure that the camp remains happy.

"It has been a demanding start of the season, no doubt, for many reasons - having changed as well the organisation in January, it's not an easy one," Binotto told Autosport.

"So, overall, yes, it has been demanding - but I think if there is anything which is helping, it's the team spirit we've got.

"And as you know, when you are in difficulties, but if around you, you can feel people happy, supportive, with the right mood, it's a lot easier.

"And if there is anything that makes me comfortable, it's certainly the people around me. And that I think is true for each of us, and I think that's our strength at the moment."

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