Ferrari presents the SF90

The Maranello outfit has improved to become a regular challenger to Mercedes over the past two seasons but is still bidding to end a title drought that stretches more than a decade. Ferrari’s new car, the SF90 to commemorate the manufacturer’s 90th anniversary in 2019.

The Mission Winnow branding remains on the front and rear wings, nose and engine cover as a nod to primary sponsor Philip Morris International’s new-technology initiative. And yet, it has been inverted to black instead of white like when it first appeared in late-2018.

Four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel remains with the Scuderia for a fifth season but will now be joined by highly-rated Charles Leclerc, who replaces Kimi Raikkonen.

Ferrari has also shaken up its management, with former chief technical officer Mattia Binotto promoted to team principal in place of Maurizio Arrivabene.

Binotto said at the launch that it will be “very intense, hard work” to get ready for the season but said “we are all focused and very excited to start”.

Of his new role, he said: “It’s simply looking ahead. I don’t think there is much to think about.

“Just do what you need to do and try to do it your best.”

Binotto and both drivers were joined by Ferrari chairman John Elkann, vice-chairman Piero Ferrari and CEO Louis Camilleri.

Addressing attendees at the launch and those watching online, Camilleri said: “This year is an important one for we celebrate our 90th anniversary as the Scuderia Ferrari was born in Modena in 1929.

“It’s an important milestone as we continue to be inspired and guided by the vision of our founder Enzo Ferrari.

“We fully understand as a team we carry the hopes, expectation and pride of an entire nation and millions of fans across the world.

“It’s a responsibility we gladly accept. Last season was our best in the last 10 years, yet we fell short of our objectives.

“Such a setback is never easy to swallow, but I assure you we look ahead with strong commitment and determination.”

All hopes are on Sebastian Vettel and Charles Leclerc with this SF90. Fingers crossed the race team can cut out the strategical mistakes that affected their title hopes last season and score consistent top results.

That all-important championship will be the top moment to celebrate the Italian manufacturer’s 90th anniversary.