Ferrari rules out kneejerk changes

Fernando Alonso had led the standings going into the Abu Dhabi finale, but lost out to Sebastian Vettel after a disastrous strategy decision left Alonso stuck in traffic for most of the race and down in seventh at the flag.

There had been speculation in Italy that some of Ferrari's leading staff might be in the firing line as a consequence, but company president Luca di Montezemolo insisted that this would not happen.

"Changes within the team? That is not our philosophy, because for years now we have adopted a policy based on dynamic stability," he said at Valencia today.

"A few minor adjustments are possible, but no major upheaval.

"And after all, it has to be said that if we had not got it wrong with that 'penalty kick' in Abu Dhabi, today the discussion would be completely different."

Di Montezemolo also gave team boss Stefano Domenicali his full backing.

"I am very happy with the work with which Stefano Domenicali is moving us forward, with great ability, spirit and a sense of balance," said the Ferrari president.

Alonso agreed that the outcome in Abu Dhabi should not be allowed to overshadow everything else that Ferrari had achieved.

"The comeback we mounted from the mid-point of the season onwards, the way in which we all pulled together, more united than ever, is much more important," he said.

"There were races where we lost points, just as there were some where the others lost more, otherwise they would have won much earlier.

"So much has been said about Abu Dhabi, but it's easy to talk with hindsight. But I think that at Red Bull they would have made other choices after Korea for example.

"The team was very disappointed with the missed opportunity but Ferrari's great strength is that does not sink into depression because of one mistake, on the contrary, it reacts to be even more determined the following year."