Ferrari Sets Sights on Improvement with Upcoming Regulations and Upgrades
Ferrari aims to enhance its performance in the 2025 Formula 1 season, having secured only one podium — a third-place finish by Charles Leclerc in Jeddah. Acknowledging challenges faced so far, the Maranello-based team looks forward to implementing crucial upgrades and benefiting from new FIA regulations.
Starting at the Spanish Grand Prix in late May, stricter front wing tests will come into effect. Leclerc believes these regulations will limit the aerodynamic advantages some competitors, notably McLaren and Mercedes, have gained through flexible components that passed the previous static tests. "It will be crucial for us to adapt and improve," stated Leclerc.
In addition, Ferrari plans to roll out significant modifications at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, which follows this weekend’s race in Miami. These updates aim to boost downforce in the SF-25, with the full package scheduled for debut in Barcelona. Key objectives include addressing rear-end downforce issues that have compromised stability, particularly affecting teammate Lewis Hamilton’s performance during braking and corner entry.
Recent qualifying results indicate that Ferrari has been trailing McLaren by an average of 0.323 seconds over the last four races. This disparity is attributed to the SF-25’s incremental performance improvement being less pronounced than that of its predecessors compared to the MCL39. The team acknowledges that initial expectations for competitive output were perhaps overly optimistic.
Looking ahead, the Barcelona race will be a definitive assessment of Ferrari’s improvements against its rivals, many of whom are also poised to introduce updates. While Ferrari is hopeful, it remains cautious, recalling that past technical directives, such as those regarding rear wing flexibility, yielded minimal effects.
As the season progresses, Ferrari’s ability to adapt to regulatory changes and its own developmental challenges will be critical in closing the gap to its competitors.
