Ferrari's SF-25: The technical turnaround at Monaco

Written by Aashna Singh, Edited by Sasha Macmillen

Credit: F1

The SF-25 has been nothing short of disappointing over the past seven races, with both Ferrari drivers fighting for positions in the middle of the order. Their performance has been dull and underwhelming for fans. Despite upgrades that were brought to the Bahrain and Imola Grands Prix, the scarlet red car has been underperforming. 

Fans weren’t expecting anything different in Monaco, Charles Leclerc’s home Grand Prix and one of the most iconic tracks on the grid. However, the SF-25 showed remarkable performance so far during free practices one and two, with Leclerc topping both sessions despite a small collision with Lance Stroll in free practice one. 

This resurgence is attributed to a series of aerodynamic and mechanical upgrades tailored to suit Monaco’s tight, low-speed circuit. 

The first technical upgrade is the pull-rod suspension-system. They adopted this system at the front and rear of the car, which is a first for the team. This configuration lowers the front suspension components, improving airflow to the underbody and improving ground-effect downforce, which is crucial for stability in Monaco’s slow corners. 

Their next upgrade was aerodynamic in nature. The newly refined car features redesigned sidepods with an “overbite” inlet and a compact P-shaped air intake, optimizing airflow to the floor and diffuser. 

Modifications to the floor’s outer edges and the diffuser have improved vortex management, intensifying downforce without compromising stability. 

Another upgrade was seen in the engine. The engine cover has been overhauled, replacing the traditional “shark fin” with louvered cooling vents. This specific design aids in thermal management, which is key to preventing overheating. It also improves airflow to the rear wing, contributing to overall aerodynamic efficiency.  

Their last upgrade of the weekend was the rear suspension and gearbox adjustments. Ferrari has refined the rear suspension to enhance traction under acceleration and they have lowered the gearbox, allowing for a more advanced diffuser design. These changes are beneficial to maximising acceleration out of Monaco’s corners. 

These technical advancements have thus far led to on track success with Leclerc taking the fastest laps in both practice sessions. Leclerc was faster than current championship leader, Oscar Piastri who was 0.038s behind the Monégasque. 

Hamilton also showed promising pace throughout the sessions, underlining the effectiveness of Ferrari’s upgrades. He placed second in the second session.

Credit: F1

Based on the data, the SF-25 has improved drastically in low-speed corners and has positioned both drivers as a strong contender for the Grand Prix. 

As the team continue to refine their car, these developments not only boost their prospects in Monaco but also benefit the confidence of both drivers, whilst the upgrades also signal a potential shift in Ferrari’s competitiveness for the remainder of the 2025 season.