Adapted from GMM

Ferrari is already working on a major chassis modification that could require the F2012 to undergo a new FIA crash test.

Luca di Montezemolo has reacted with alarm as Ferrari concedes it will not be a podium contender at the start of the 2012 season.

Despite a media ban, Fernando Alonso warned that he expects to "suffer" initially this year due to the famous Maranello based team needing to better understand its complex new F2012 car.

It is that comment that has raised the alarm of Ferrari's charismatic president Montezemolo.

"I hope that it is not true that we are going to suffer at the beginning, although Alonso is always very objective. I would like to understand why and above all understand how we can very quickly make the necessary changes," he reportedly said at the Geneva Motor Show.

Fernando Alonso driving the F2012 Ferrari at Barcelona. (Photo: WRi2)

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, he pointed his finger at the current regulations, "I don't like this F1. The aerodynamics count for 90 per cent and only the Kers makes developments possible that can be used in the production of road cars."

La Gazzetta dello Sport claims the modification is to the 2012 car's sidepod area and this fix would mean a new FIA crash test.

F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone, meanwhile, is backing Ferrari to recover.

"I am convinced they will rise again soon and that a preliminary assessment can only be made after the first two or three (races). I similarly think that McLaren will fight for the title. They could be the real surprise and it is already clear from the tests that they are very competitive," he reportedly told Sky.