Ferrari introduces Spec-2 engine ahead of schedule

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Ferrari has chosen to bring forward its first engine upgrade of the season, with the Scuderia set to run its spec-2 unit in Barcelona this weekend.

The Italian outfit was initially expected to introduce the updated engine in Montreal next month, but with Mercedes achieving a near perfect score in the first four races of 2019 and leading its rival by 74 points in the Constructors' standings, Ferrari is eager to bridge the gap.

The Scuderia's power unit upgrade will also be accompanied by a series of aerodynamic changes to its SF90 contender.

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"We are currently behind in the championship and we have to catch up, which we know means that our development work will be the key to this season," said Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto.

"Having brought a new aerodynamic package to Baku, we will also bring some developments in this area to Barcelona.

"On top of that, we will have a new power unit that we are introducing ahead of schedule, as the second specification was due to be brought to Canada."

"Shell, in close collaboration with our team, has developed a different formulation of race lubricant that will also be introduced with the new power unit, delivering increased performance.

"It's only down to a big team effort with everyone pushing hard to make up ground that we have been able to bring these developments forward."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.