Ferrari 2025 F1: new suspensions to optimize tire performance
Today at 08:09 AM
In recent weeks, we discussed how the new Ferrari F1 2025 might take shape and, more specifically, the areas where Maranello’s engineers have focused their efforts to improve the SF-24.
Suspensions, sidepods, floor, internal aerodynamics, and wings: these are the five main aspects being worked on and will feature prominently in the new car set to be unveiled on February 19.
Regarding suspensions, we can now add, based on recent information, that the work aims to address the shortcomings seen in the SF-24 under certain qualifying conditions, particularly in bringing tires up to temperature, especially during the first part of a qualifying lap.
According to sources close to Ferrari, the technical department received precise directives from Loic Serra, Technical Director of Chassis and a former Mercedes engineer who successfully tackled similar issues at the Silver Arrows. The recurring problem with Pirelli tires faced by Ferrari during the 2024 Formula 1 season was related to both the inability to reach and maintain the optimal operating window in qualifying and, at times, a performance drop-off compared to rivals.
Specifically, the rear tires, if not properly managed with an optimal race pace and without sudden demands or overheating, caused Ferrari drivers to lose performance in some cases and forced them to make early pit stops for tire changes.
If Ferrari aims to win the championship again, improving qualifying performance compared to last year must be a top priority, especially considering the likely competitiveness of McLaren, Red Bull, and Mercedes. In 2023, Ferrari was very strong in qualifying but struggled significantly with race pace. In 2024, there was a radical shift, with race pace often becoming Ferrari's strongest weapon. For 2025, under Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur’s clear directive, the goal must be to achieve convincing qualifying performances alongside race pace that matches the competition.
Last year, Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz often struggled in the first sector of a flying lap during qualifying due to issues with tire warm-up or saw performance drops at the end of the lap due to tire overheating. Expanding the temperature range, even by a few degrees, within which the tires can operate effectively could provide a significant competitive advantage.
Lewis Hamilton's arrival at Ferrari has also influenced these changes. During preliminary meetings, the British driver reportedly shared his “preferences” regarding balance and suspension setup.
As the launch date approaches, we expect to gather more interesting updates, both about the suspension and other technical aspects of the new Ferrari F1 2025 car, known internally as Project 677 and likely to be called the SF-25.
— see video above —
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