Ferrari SF-25: First analyses reveal a new floor already tested in 2023 – Ferrari has officially unveiled the SF-25, and the first images from the car’s shakedown at Fiorano have already provided key insights into the team’s latest technical advances. Among the most notable features is a new ‘trick’ floor concept, first tested towards the end of the 2023 season.
Scuderia Ferrari had previously introduced an experimental version of this floor at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, before using a refined version in Qatar. Now, with the SF-25, the team is doubling down on this development, aiming for greater aerodynamic efficiency and stability.
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A new floor evolution from 2023 testing
The floor is one of the most critical elements of a modern F1 car, especially under the current ground effect regulations. The latest images from Fiorano show an updated inlet for the Venturi channels, now with a raised internal channel. This small elevation is designed to create an additional vortex, helping to direct the airflow under the car more effectively.
In addition, refinements to the outer edges of the floor indicate that Ferrari has placed significant emphasis on lateral aerodynamics.
This latest iteration of the floor is a direct evolution of the 2023 experimental version. Ferrari’s aim is to find the perfect balance between cornering speed and overall car handling.
According to F1 technical expert Carlo Platella the design of the floor manages to deliver the ‘trick’ of improved stability, particularly in high-speed corners, allowing the SF-25 to extract more performance from a variety of circuits much like how McLaren’s car was in 2024.
This aspect may be crucial to success against McLaren and Red Bull in 2025 for Hamilton and Leclerc.
Pull-rod suspension and updated brake cooling concept
Another outstanding feature of the SF-25 is the use of pull-rod front suspension. This design choice has been confirmed by images from the Fiorano test, and brings Ferrari in line with a concept already used by some of its rivals. The team has also changed the positioning of the brake ducts.
Unlike McLaren, where the pull rod is routed through the brake duct, Ferrari have opted to keep it external, directing the airflow underneath the rod.
This decision could play a crucial role in brake cooling and tyre temperature management. Hot air exiting the brake ducts can affect the airflow around the wheels, affecting overall aerodynamics. Ferrari’s approach suggests a preference for optimising the mechanical behaviour of the suspension and heat dissipation, rather than focusing solely on aerodynamic gains.
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Key developments that could lead to championship glory in 2025
Ferrari’s latest Formula 1 contender, the SF-25, was officially unveiled to the public at a much-anticipated event.
The Scuderia hopes this car will mark a turning point in its quest for championship glory after an 18-year title drought. With a star-studded driver line-up including Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, Ferrari’s ambitions for 2025 are clear: nothing less than the championship.
While the launch event only showcased the SF-25 livery on an SF-24 chassis, the real developments behind the new car are significant.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key innovations that Ferrari hopes will take them back to the top:
1. Longer chassis for better weight distribution
One of the first noticeable changes to the SF-25 is its longer chassis, which is now 25mm longer at the front. This design change allows for improved weight distribution, addressing some of the weaknesses Ferrari found with the SF-24, particularly in both slow and fast corners. By shifting more weight to the rear, the team aims to improve the overall balance and handling of the car.
2. Pull-rod front suspension for aerodynamic gains
Ferrari has moved to a pull-rod front suspension, a concept driven not primarily by mechanical advantages but by aerodynamic efficiency. This layout improves the airflow under the chassis, enhancing the car’s ground effect characteristics. It’s a return to an older concept, as Ferrari previously used a pull-rod setup with the SF-15T in 2015.
3. A more compact gearbox for improved balance
The SF-25 features a redesigned carbon fibre gearbox, which is now shorter than its predecessor. This change is particularly beneficial for Hamilton, who prefers a more rear-facing driving position – something he has struggled to achieve in previous Ferrari models. The revision is aimed at improving driving comfort while also improving the overall balance of the car.
4. Sidepod refinements for better airflow
Aerodynamics remains a top priority for Ferrari, and the SF-25’s sidepods reflect this commitment. The team has introduced narrower openings and a deeper profile to optimise airflow to the ground. These refinements should increase downforce while minimising drag. In addition, the inclusion of serrated bargeboards – an evolution of the SF-24’s late-season upgrades – demonstrates Ferrari’s ongoing pursuit of aerodynamic efficiency.
5. Redesigned front wing and nose for reduced drag
Ferrari has significantly revised the SF-25’s nose, making it more refined to reduce aerodynamic drag. The front wing design is broadly similar to that used by Ferrari in the second half of 2024, although some adjustments have been made to comply with new regulations. In particular, the FIA has introduced stricter requirements for flexible front wing flaps, which will come into effect from the Spanish Grand Prix.
6. Modified rear suspension for improved traction
Although the SF-25 retains a pull-rod rear suspension, its kinematics have been modified to improve traction. This development is particularly important as Ferrari aims to maximise grip on a wide variety of circuits. Improved traction will be key to maintaining competitive lap times, especially in low-speed corners where the SF-24 struggled.
7. Engine cover and airbox optimisations
The SF-25’s cowl has been redesigned with a clean, minimalist approach. The airbox remains triangular, a signature Ferrari design element, but overall heat management has been further optimised. These refinements help reduce turbulence and contribute to better cooling efficiency without compromising aerodynamic performance.
8. Rear wing inspired by Mercedes design philosophy
The SF-25’s rear wing retains a monopylon support structure, but Ferrari has taken inspiration from Mercedes by incorporating a more diagonal air outlet. This design change is intended to fine-tune the airflow around the car, further optimising aerodynamic stability.
A 99% new car with a clear goal: championship success
The SF-25 is not just an incremental update – it is a complete overhaul. As Ferrari Team Principal Frédéric Vasseur points out, the car is “99% new”. The team has made bold design choices, demonstrating a clear ambition to challenge for the 2025 championship.
With an extensively revised chassis, improved aerodynamics and one of the strongest driver line-ups on the grid, Ferrari is leaving nothing to chance. The combination of technical advances and Hamilton’s arrival signals the Scuderia’s most serious title challenge in years.
With the SF-25 making its first appearance on track during the Fiorano shakedown, anticipation is at an all-time high. Could this be the car that finally returns Ferrari to championship glory? The 2025 season will provide the answer, but early indications are that Ferrari have built a serious contender.
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Carlos Sainz was last year the victim of a global merging of brands as Lewis Hamilton picked up the phone to Ferrari chairman. John Elkann, to see if there was room at the inn in Maranello. The Brackley based outfit were responsible for handing Lewis six of his seven world titles, but they bit the buffers when the new ground effect regulations came into force in 2022.
Hamilton finished third in the drivers title race in 2023 and signed a a contract extension late on the year, which was announced a ‘multi year deal’, yet while the ink was still wet Hamilton decided the Mercedes team were not solving the problems which would return him to wining ways.
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