In the initial photos, it was clear that Ferrari had made significant changes to their car compared to its predecessor. However, upon closer inspection, it’s evident that the team has taken a major leap forward with the SF-25, the car that will be driven by Lewis Hamilton. The question on everyone’s mind is, can this new design propel Ferrari to the top of the podium?
There’s no doubt that the team in Maranello has pushed the boundaries in their pursuit of the world title. From the summer of last year, particularly in Holland, Ferrari’s car showed immense strength in tire degradation and adaptability on different tracks. These virtues are what they aim to build upon, while also improving their performance, which had been lacking in recent years. It’s a delicate balancing act, as the team stretches the famous “short blanket” that has been a hallmark of F1’s ground effect era, affecting almost all teams except Red Bull.
Redesigned from End to Tail
The new SF-25 boasts a shorter and more compact nose, redesigned front suspensions, and a geometry inspired by Red Bull’s approach. The minimal pontoons, delayed and elevated, are also a notable feature. It’s clear that aerodynamics and the benefits that have worked for McLaren and Red Bull in recent times are now the focus for Ferrari’s technical team, led by Loïc Serra, following the departure of Enrico Cardile to Aston Martin.
One aspect that catches the eye is the increased ground clearance between the ground and the sides, an area where Ferrari hasn’t explored much in recent years. McLaren’s director, Andrea Stella, noted that they found a significant margin of improvement in this area, which was instrumental in their success in Miami 2024. Now, Ferrari aims to capitalize on this gain without compromising their strong point – tire degradation.
The improvements aren’t limited to the central part of the car; the rear also features a new design element, with a slide to the ground and a revised ‘Beam Wing’ that falls suddenly, rather than being prolonged like its predecessor. This is a feature that many teams, including Williams, are now adopting from McLaren’s design.
The engine cover has also undergone a significant change, replacing the pronounced crest with a sketch featuring small saw teeth. Despite the numerous updates, the car still retains some of its unique identity, such as the triangular air intake, which is divided into a triangle and cooling ducts for the engine, rather than the oval design used by other teams.
With so many novelties, it’s clear that Ferrari is determined to make a statement. The team has experienced a rollercoaster of trends over the years, from dominating the field to struggling to find their footing. However, since Fernando Alonso’s time (2010 and 2012), they’ve consistently fought for the World Cup until the very end. The goal for 2025 is to be in the mix from start to finish, with Leclerc and Hamilton at the helm.