Ferrari shows up at the Austrian Grand Prix weekend with a new floor on the SF-25, aiming to regain competitiveness. This marks the second floor specification introduced by the Italian team this season, following the update brought to Bahrain. It’s also the first component of a wider upgrade package designed to correct the car’s weaknesses. Under the leadership of Loic Serra, the team has put in significant effort, and it will now be up to the track to validate the effectiveness of this key ground-effect component.
Subtle but crucial changes to Ferrari’s new floor
The most noticeable differences compared to the previous version are found around the vortex generator, positioned behind the outermost floor fence. The new flow diverter no longer features the dual step design but adopts a more rounded shape. The goal is to alter how vortices are managed along the floor edge, which helps seal the floor and improve aerodynamic stability.
This update adjusts the vortex incidence angle, enhancing stability through a more streamlined appendix shape. Following this change, engineers also modified the lateral extractor — a crucial element for reducing understeer. This component plays a key role in generating the edge vortex that flows along the floor’s outer edge, sealing the underfloor and preventing airflow leaks that could disrupt aerodynamics.
The new version of the lateral extractor is now larger. Post-upgrade, it extends slightly higher and features a flatter profile, maintaining a more constant height along its length. This improves lateral flow expansion, increasing localized downforce and strengthening the edge vortex. As a result, the floor sealing is more effective, and the vortex stability inside the Venturi channels is improved. The aim is to widen the aerodynamic map and, in turn, the setup window, thanks to a floor that’s less sensitive to variations in the car’s characteristic angles.
Upgrades to the diffuser area
Additional updates were made to the diffuser, especially on its side wall. The element known as the “bulk” has been increased in size. While at first glance this might seem counterproductive due to a perceived reduction in overall diffuser volume, the update actually improves flow extraction, enhances efficiency, and ensures more stable airflow.
Ultimately, Ferrari is targeting improved vehicle stability and a broader setup range — a key objective given the persistent limitations caused by the rear suspension, which has so far restricted the SF-25’s performance window.
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