Ferrari: SF-25 makes track debut, first laps at Fiorano with Charles Leclerc
02/19/2025 04:34 AM
Following yesterday's presentation, the SF-25 has now had its long-awaited track debut, the car with which the Maranello team will compete in the 2025 season in pursuit of the world championship.
In the classic Fiorano setting, just before 9:25 AM, the SF-25 completed its first kilometers with Charles Leclerc at the wheel, while the afternoon session will be driven by newcomer Lewis Hamilton. Ferrari will cover a total of 200 kilometers, the maximum allowed under regulations for filming days—promotional events intended for commercial footage and for the team to verify all systems before pre-season testing.
During the initial outing, Charles Leclerc completed two installation laps before returning to the pits, where engineers analyzed the first set of parameters. This was followed by another stint of about ten laps, which also included a practice start. Meanwhile, Ferrari President John Elkann arrived at Fiorano to witness the new car's debut.
Visually, the most noticeable element is the updated livery, which features more white accents on the engine cover and rear wing, along with a different shade of red compared to previous years, though the matte finish remains as in recent seasons.
On the technical front, the most significant changes are in the front and central sections of the car. The front suspension has been completely redesigned, moving from a push-rod to a pull-rod setup to improve aerodynamics and align with rival solutions.
In the central area of the SF-25, the sidepods have been entirely reworked, modifying both the radiator inlet shape and the undercut below it to create more space and enhance airflow management toward the car's rear.
New cooling outlets have been introduced on the upper engine cover, along with a redesigned rear wing featuring a “V” profile and a DRS flap connection inspired by the one seen on the Mercedes W15.
Last year, the championship was lost in the final race by just a few points, largely due to mid-season development struggles. However, Ferrari managed to recover, delivering a strong car in the latter part of the championship—one that was competitive enough to fight for the title until the final moments in Abu Dhabi.
The reason Ferrari was able to extend the title fight to the very end wasn't just technical but also sporting. The team demonstrated solid execution in race operations, making significant progress in strategy, an area that had been a weakness in previous years.
Vasseur has strengthened the team in the right areas, and now it's time to capitalize on the work done over the past two years, aiming for the world championship with dominance not just on the sporting side but also on the technical front. The French Team Principal has made no secret of Ferrari's 2025 objective: turning a dream into a concrete target.
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