Ferrari Technical Preview: searching for SF24 limits to unleash hidden details – Brazilian GP
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The Maranello team arrives in Brazil after two consecutive race victories, indicating that the 676 project can adapt to tracks beyond the simpler “Stop&Go” circuits like Baku and Singapore. In this technical preview for Brazil, we explore how the Ferrari SF-24 might perform on a circuit that could prove even more challenging.
Austin and Mexico City, two distinct tracks with the same result at the end of the GP: two back-to-back wins for Ferrari, something they haven't achieved since 2022. These tracks highlighted a wider operating window for the car, suitable for both high and low downforce circuits. The "test of nine" in Austin, as Ferrari's drivers called it, went well, but the final assessment will come in Brazil.
The Interlagos circuit is different from COTA and Hermanos Rodriguez, with long turns, restarts, and elevation changes that will once again test the SF-24. While its acceleration performance has shown strong results, long turns might reveal an unresolved limitation for Ferrari. However, the Austin test in the Horseshoe (Turns 16-18) showed clear improvement compared to 2023.
Interlagos and concerns about the new track surface
One potential uncertainty is the use of softer compounds, compared to the intermediate compounds used in Texas. Although the SF-24 has a wider setup range, it may struggle to fully handle the lower stiffness of the softer compounds in Interlagos. The Brazilian track resembles Zandvoort, with the key difference being that harder compounds were used in the Netherlands.
In terms of suspension, the SF-24 may need to push its suspension limits, which currently are slightly lower than the MCL38 and RB20. A suspension that's too stiff to control roll could hinder the car's rotation in slow corners, making it necessary to find a balance between longitudinal (traction) and lateral (roll) softness. The front should not face significant entry issues, as the front wing has shown remarkable potential. Additionally, as a front-limited track, achieving the correct tire window for the front tires will be even more crucial.
Source: f1ingenerale
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