One of the biggest changes to the 2025 Ferrari SF-25 is the switch from pushrod to pullrod suspension, believed to be for aerodynamic optimisation and a more stable platform.
In it's F! cars, A driver cooling kit has been introduced for 2025. The system will only be mandated by the FIA in extreme heat conditions, with the minimum weight of the cars increased correspondingly when applicable. This is to avoid a repeat of overheating of the drivers witnessed at the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix
Ferrari's Strategic Shift and Technical Evolution in the 2025 Formula 1 Season
Ferrari, a team steeped in Formula 1 history and known for its passionate fanbase, entered the 2025 season with a multitude of changes, both on and off the track. The arrival of Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, alongside Charles Leclerc formed a highly anticipated driver pairing. However, the season has presented a stark contrast between high expectations and a challenging reality, leading Ferrari to adopt a pragmatic approach focused on future success.
Technical overhaul
The most visible change for 2025 was the SF-25, which Ferrari described as a "completely new car", despite the stable technical regulations leading up to the major overhaul in 2026. A notable departure from their traditional approach was the adoption of a pull-rod front suspension, a design favoured by competitors like Red Bull and McLaren, according to Formula 1. This change aimed to optimize aerodynamic performance, clean up airflow around the car, and unlock further development potential, addressing a known weakness of the previous car in high-speed corners. The SF-25 also featured a slightly lengthened wheelbase, allowing for a more tapered rear end and improved airflow to the underfloor.
Further aerodynamic refinements included redesigned sidepod geometry, optimized underbody aerodynamics, and refined rear wing elements, all geared towards boosting performance and efficiency. Despite the engine specifications being frozen, Ferrari focused on optimizing the power unit's operation for a broader performance spread across various circuit types.
Strategic redirection and focus on 2026
Ferrari's 2025 campaign, while aiming for a strong season, appears to be heavily influenced by the impending 2026 regulations and the need to strategically allocate resources for the development of their next-generation "Project 678" car. This involves a delicate balancing act, navigating the constraints of F1's Aerodynamic Testing Regulations (ATR) which dictate wind tunnel hours based on previous season's performance.
Initially, the focus was primarily on optimizing the SF-25 and extracting its full potential, with the majority of wind tunnel time allocated to this purpose in the early part of the season. However, the team has acknowledged that development on the SF-25 will likely scale back later in the season as more resources shift towards the 2026 car. This strategic shift aims to position Ferrari strongly for the new era of regulations, even if it means accepting a more challenging 2025 season.
Challenges and outlook
The 2025 season has not been without its difficulties for Ferrari. The team has struggled with inconsistency and has yet to achieve the race victories or podium finishes it initially aimed for. Despite this, team principal Fred Vasseur has emphasized the importance of teamwork and perseverance, acknowledging the high expectations surrounding the team but also stressing the importance of a long-term vision.
Ferrari's strategic redirection towards the 2026 regulations signifies a calculated risk. While it might sacrifice some immediate success, the team hopes that this focus will yield significant rewards when the new regulations come into effect. The combination of an experienced and highly talented driver pairing, alongside a forward-looking technical and strategic approach, indicates Ferrari's commitment to returning to the top of Formula 1 in the years to come.
By Rob Longwell, editor
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