Ferrari plans to introduce major upgrades to its SF-25 starting from Imola to recover from a slow F1 2025 season. With only one podium finish so far, the team is optimistic about improvements, mainly due to new FIA regulations on front wing flexibility, which could impact rival teams. Barcelona will serve as a litmus test for these changes.
Ferrari is gearing up for significant updates to its SF-25, aiming to turn around a disappointing start to the 2025 Formula 1 season. Following only one podium finish by Charles Leclerc in Jeddah, the team is looking to make headway starting from the Imola round in May. Announced improvements will coincide with stricter front wing tests set by the FIA for the Spanish Grand Prix.
Leclerc indicates that these new regulations may level the playing field. He suggested that while rivals, notably McLaren and Mercedes, might excel through flexible aero designs, the FIA’s adjustments will limit those advantages soon. This leads us to think that Ferrari might finally get a boost in performance.
The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix will mark the debut of the upgrade package, specifically targeting issues with the car’s downforce. The team is keen to improve what they see as flaws, particularly the rear end’s lack of stability which has frustrated driver Lewis Hamilton. Despite his struggles in adapting to the SF-25, Leclerc has shown better skill in compensating for the car’s deficiencies.
Ferrari also faces a significant qualifying gap, trailing McLaren by over three-tenths of a second across the last few races. In tangible terms, the SF-25’s improvements have paled compared to McLaren’s MCL39, with differences noted at about 0.857 seconds to 1.359 seconds respectively. It appears that Ferrari may have overestimated their initial competitiveness with the new car.
Importantly, the upcoming Barcelona race will serve as a crucial indicator of Ferrari’s progress. However, it’s crucial to remain cautious; rivals are likely to announce their own updates soon, and earlier FIA directives didn’t drastically change the competitive landscape.
In summary, Ferrari is betting big on the upcoming upgrades for the SF-25, initiated at Imola and culminating with the Barcelona race, to rectify a challenging season start. The team’s adjustment to regulatory changes surrounding front wings could provide a necessary performance boost. However, they will need to contend with rivals who are also improving and adapt strategically.
Original Source: www.autosport.com