Ferrari is set to introduce significant car upgrades starting at Imola in May, aiming to enhance performance following a challenging start to the 2025 F1 season. Stricter FIA wing tests are expected to level the playing field with rivals, while the updates focus on improving the SF-25’s downforce, particularly at the rear. Barcelona will be a key test for these changes as expectations remain cautious amidst competitive pressures.
Ferrari has had a rough start to the 2025 Formula 1 season, managing just one podium finish thanks to Charles Leclerc’s performance in Jeddah. With the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix set for May, the team is looking towards major updates to their car to significantly improve its performance in the coming races.
A focal point of their upgrade strategy includes a response to new stricter front wing tests being introduced at the Spanish Grand Prix later this month. Leclerc believes these regulations could help level the playing field against rivals like McLaren and Mercedes, who have perhaps benefited from flexible aero components that still pass the current static tests. Ideal winning conditions are what Ferrari hopes the new changes will bring.
The upcoming upgrades at Imola aim primarily at boosting the SF-25’s downforce, something that has been a significant shortcoming of the current car. In particular, the rear end’s downforce has been problematic, leading to instability that hampers drivers like Lewis Hamilton. Conversely, Leclerc has managed to adapt to the car better than others.
Performance gains are critical for Ferrari, especially when they have been lagging behind McLaren by an average of 0.323 seconds in qualifying over the past four races. The SF-25 has not advanced as much as expected compared to the MCL39, showcasing a disparity in competitiveness that the team might have overestimated in the season’s early stages.
As they head into Barcelona, this race will be a crucial test for the upgrades. However, expectations should remain tempered since competitors are likely to have updates of their own, and previous technical directives focused on rear wing flexibility have had minimal impact.
Overall, as Ferrari prepares for these changes, the pressure is high to capitalise on their adjustments and turn around their fortunes in the season. The upcoming races will be a litmus test for their revamped strategy and performances, making the following weeks pivotal for the Scuderia.
Ferrari aims to rebound from a disappointing start to the 2025 Formula 1 season with substantial upgrades planned for the Imola race in May. With a critical focus on increasing downforce and adjusting to new FIA regulations, the team hopes to significantly improve performance. Barcelona will serve as a key evaluation point, as fresh upgrades from rivals are also anticipated, making the competitive landscape ever challenging for the Scuderia.
Original Source: www.autosport.com