Carlos Sainz's Ferrari SF-23 Miniature 1:18: Technology, Speed, and Spectacle
The Ferrari SF-23, Scuderia Ferrari's single-seater for the 2023 Formula 1 season, was the protagonist of memorable moments at the Las Vegas Grand Prix in November. Driven by Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc, the car drew attention not only for its performance but also for the unique spectacle provided by the illuminated streets of the city that never sleeps. Despite the season's ups and downs, the SF-23 represented Ferrari's quest to return to the top of Formula 1, incorporating technological innovation, aggressive design, and the competitive spirit that makes the Italian team a true motorsport icon.
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Driven Vault
8/26/20252 min read
History and Origin of the SF-23
The SF-23 was officially unveiled on February 14, 2023, in Maranello, Ferrari's historic home. The name reflects the team's tradition: "SF" for Scuderia Ferrari and "23" for the season year.
After a promising 2022, but full of strategic flaws, Ferrari was banking on a car that could consistently compete with the Red Bull RB19 and Mercedes W14. The SF-23 was developed with a focus on improving aerodynamic efficiency and straight-line speed, two weaknesses for the team in the previous season.
The 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix
The Las Vegas Grand Prix marked the city's return to Formula 1 after 40 years, but this time on a brand-new urban circuit, passing through the famous Strip, lined with casinos and neon lights.
For Ferrari, the race started dramatically: Carlos Sainz received a 10-place grid penalty after his car was seriously damaged by a loose manhole cover during free practice—an incident that generated significant attention. paddock.
Even so, Sainz showed determination. Starting from the back, he managed to recover positions with a strong pace and finished the race in 6th place, while his teammate Charles Leclerc finished 2nd, behind only Max Verstappen.
Ferrari's performance in Las Vegas was seen as one of the team's best moments of the season, demonstrating the speed and potential of the SF-23, even against Red Bull's dominance.
Cultural Impact and Exclusivity
The 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix made history not only for its spectacle, but also for its controversy: overpriced tickets, early-morning racing, and unexpected incidents. Still, Ferrari shone in the spotlight.
Carlos Sainz's SF-23, marked by the manhole cover incident and its impressive recovery, became a symbol of the Scuderia's resilience in a challenging season.
Trivia
The manhole cover incident severely damaged Sainz's SF-23, costing Ferrari over $1 million in repairs.
Despite the damage, Sainz managed to score points in Las Vegas, demonstrating consistency.
The car used a low-downforce setup to achieve higher top speed on the circuit's long straights.
Design and Engineering
The SF-23 maintained the philosophy of the technical regulations introduced in 2022, with ground effect and simplified wings. However, Ferrari introduced new features:
A redesigned front wing to increase stability.
More aggressive sidepods, with an innovative shape to improve cooling and aerodynamic flow.
A compact rear end, reducing drag and increasing efficiency at high speeds.
Revised suspension to reduce tire wear, a chronic problem for Ferrari.
The car's design was also designed for Las Vegas, where the long main straight required maximum efficiency at top speed.
Technical Specifications
Engine: Ferrari 066/10 1.6-liter V6 turbo hybrid
Power: ~1050 hp (including MGU-K and MGU-H)
Transmission: 8-speed semi-automatic
Curb weight: 798 kg (FIA-regulated)
Top speed: over 340 km/h
Tires: 18-inch Pirelli
Chassis: Carbon fiber monocoque
Carlos Sainz's Ferrari SF-23 at the 2023 Las Vegas GP is a clear example of how unpredictable Formula 1 can be: technical problems, penalties, and on-track overachievement have made this car and this race part of the Scuderia's recent memory.
Ferrari SF-23
For fans of supercars, speed, and legendary racing, the SF-23 will be remembered as the car that shone under the lights of Las Vegas.