Ferrari Revamps SF-25 for Austrian Grand Prix
Ferrari has unveiled sweeping updates to its SF-25 as it aims to improve its inconsistent performance in the 2025 Formula 1 season, particularly ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring. The team has effectively introduced a new floor design, showcasing modifications across four key areas, most notably in the floor fences, body, and diffuser.
In a notable move, Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes was fitted with aerodynamic rakes during free practice to gather data for correlation with Ferrari’s computational models, indicating an intense focus on aerodynamic efficiency.
Ferrari’s revised floor features updated front fences designed to enhance the downstream vorticity. Modifications to the floor edge wing have also been made, including a reduced camber to optimize airflow and improve aerodynamic loading across the car’s operating envelope. Ferrari’s engineering notes affirm that these changes could result in an overall load gain, critical for performance.
The SF-25 is typically run at higher ride heights to ensure consistency, albeit at the expense of peak performance. This strategy aims to maintain aerodynamic efficiency by reducing reliance on ground effect, which is more productive at lower ride heights. “Putting the tyre in the right window is always more and more difficult,” remarked Charles Leclerc, highlighting the challenges drivers face in qualifying compared to race conditions, where consistent tyre management is crucial.
Despite reduced qualifying pace, Ferrari has exhibited better race performance this season. The car’s ability to maintain steady downforce, especially under varied operating conditions, is critical. Achieving improved balance during qualifying could lead to more competitive race results moving forward.
As the team progresses through the 2025 calendar, the effectiveness of these updates will be scrutinized as they aim to elevate their competitiveness in the championship standings.
