Ferrari's F1 Logistics: The Race Beyond the Track

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CEVA Logistics keeps Ferrari’s global racing machine in motion (Credit: Ferrari)
CEVA Logistics keeps Ferrari’s global racing machine in motion, coordinating precision freight operations that match the speed and excellence of the track

In the high-speed world of Formula 1 and endurance motorsport, velocity extends far beyond the circuit. 

That momentum is carried through every supply chain component that sustains Ferrari's racing operations. CEVA Logistics, operating within the CMA CGM Group, coordinates the complex global logistics that drive Scuderia Ferrari HP and Ferrari Hypercar – a process requiring technical precision comparable to any race strategy executed in the pits.

Throughout each racing season, CEVA oversees the complete logistics operation for more than 90 Grand Prix and endurance competitions, transporting 4,000 tonnes of equipment across 52 nations.

Planning begins months ahead, involving comprehensive route analysis and transport mode selection spanning maritime, aviation, road and rail networks – frequently operating six parallel freight configurations to maintain Ferrari's demanding race schedule.

Each container, instrument and part must reach its destination with exact timing, frequently within a 24-hour transfer period between continents. This demanding schedule requires CEVA's logistics coordinators to work in synchronisation with Ferrari's race engineers, ensuring that critical components arrive precisely when needed for practice sessions, qualifying rounds and race day preparations.

Mathieu Friedberg, CEO, CEVA Logistics, explains: ā€œSince 2022, CEVA Logistics has demonstrated its commitment to pursuing the operational excellence, innovation and low carbon solutions required by a customer like Ferrari.

Mathieu Friedberg, CEO, CEVA Logistics

ā€œBecoming a Premium Partner of Scuderia Ferrari HP, and now Ferrari Hypercar, is proof of CEVA’s ambition and ability to deliver excellence in support of Ferrari.ā€

Co-ordinating global race logistics

To achieve this level of accuracy, CEVA merges long-distance shipping routes with customised multimodal networks. 

Maritime freight forms the foundation for intercontinental transportation, striking a balance between cost-efficiency and emissions output, while air freight handles urgent or time-critical shipments.

Rail freight is also being progressively integrated to reduce carbon emissions and enhance scheduling reliability – recent developments include European production facilities connecting with Asian racing venues through combined rail-maritime channels.

This multimodal approach provides CEVA with the flexibility to adapt to changing race calendars and unexpected logistical challenges.

Following each circuit event, CEVA's personnel disassemble, package and redeploy equipment within hours. Specialist customs teams handle race-specific clearance procedures, ensuring adherence to requirements in territories with challenging import frameworks.

Each operation is structured with the same rigour as the vehicle assembly itself, supported by contingency routes prepared for unexpected disruptions.

The logistics teams deploy tracking technology to monitor shipments in real-time, providing Ferrari with complete visibility throughout the transportation process. This transparency enables proactive decision-making and immediate responses to potential delays or complications.

Environmental responsibility in motorsport

Sustainability has become a central element of Ferrari's race logistics transformation too. 

ā€œFerrari shares with CEVA Logistics a common culture built on the pursuit of excellence, innovation and teamwork,ā€ says Lorenzo Giorgetti, Chief Racing Revenue Officer at Ferrari, ā€œvalues that drive performance both on and off the track in Formula 1 as well as in the World Endurance Championship. 

Lorenzo Giorgetti, Chief Racing Revenue Officer at Ferrari

“Over the past years, CEVA supported our racing activities around the world, combining precision and reliability with a clear vision for sustainability.

“As we strengthen our collaboration, we continue to push boundaries together, guided by the same pursuit of speed, efficiency and progress that defines the Ferrari spirit.”

CEVA uses its international warehouse infrastructure to position logistics equipment nearer to regional competitions, minimising return journeys to Italy and eliminating unnecessary repositioning movements.

Low-emission fuels, enhanced packaging solutions and sophisticated tracking systems all contribute to quantifiable carbon reductions throughout CEVA's motorsport operations.

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Supporting Ferrari’s endurance programme

Within endurance competition, CEVA's capabilities now also extend to Ferrari Hypercar throughout the FIA World Endurance Championship – a series featuring the demanding 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The identical logistics accuracy that maintains a Formula 1 operation now underpins multi-day international transport sequences where margin for error approaches zero.

CEVA's operational activity represents a wider transformation in motorsport logistics – progressing from the simple pursuit of velocity to an evolved performance standard where dependability, environmental responsibility and technical excellence align. 

Ferrari may grab the attention, but CEVA guarantees the competition continues uninterrupted.