Scuderia Ferrari has been working intensively in the days following the 2025 Belgian Grand Prix to further refine and enhance the mechanical setup of its new rear suspension, which made its debut at Spa-Francorchamps. For the Hungarian Grand Prix, the Maranello-based team has decided to fit the SF-25 car with the same high-downforce rear wing configuration that was previously used on the narrow streets of Monte Carlo, in a strategic move to maximize aerodynamic grip. However, one key area of attention will be power unit consumption, which could be a concern under these conditions.
The Hungaroring is a circuit that presents an entirely different technical and driving challenge compared to Spa. The Hungarian track, which traditionally hosts the final race before the Formula 1 summer break, is characterized by a twisty layout with mostly medium-speed and slow-speed corners, and only a single main straight. As a result, teams typically configure their cars to run with the highest possible aerodynamic load to maximize downforce and grip through the technical sections.
Ferrari has opted to bring back its Monaco-spec rear wing to Budapest. This version features a long-chord main plane that is almost flat across its span, combined with a high-angle flap topped by a prominent nolder. This element is especially useful in generating additional vertical load in the slower parts of the track. A slight curvature is present only near the endplates, optimizing airflow at the outer edges.
On the front end, the SF-25’s front wing has also been revised. The final flap element is now significantly stiffer, particularly in the area stretching from the center of the wing to the endplate. This modification has been introduced to help combat the SF-25’s chronic understeer, enhancing the car’s initial turn-in response and allowing the drivers to make better use of the increased performance potential unlocked by the new rear suspension system.
Ferrari team principal Frédéric Vasseur, who has recently signed a multi-year contract extension with the Italian team, expressed confidence ahead of the Hungarian round. The French manager emphasized that the significant efforts made at the Scuderia’s Maranello headquarters have led to the introduction of an upgraded package aimed at further boosting overall performance. Fred Vasseur stated that Ferrari’s goal for the Hungarian Grand Prix is to continue the team’s upward trajectory. In Belgium, Charles Leclerc secured Ferrari’s fifth podium finish of the 2025 season, and the team now sets its sights on challenging McLaren for stronger results going forward.
Whether this renewed ambition will translate into real performance gains remains to be seen, and tomorrow’s free practice sessions will provide a clearer picture. However, what is already certain is that the team has carried out an in-depth post-race analysis immediately after Spa. While the racing team was making its way to Hungary, Ferrari engineers focused heavily on evaluating the SF-25’s braking behavior. The recent adoption of a rear suspension geometry with increased anti-squat has made the car more stable under braking and more predictable for the drivers. The data gathered was then used to fine-tune the rear-end setup, aiming to extract the maximum potential from the updated aerodynamic configuration.
Particular attention has also been paid to the braking system. Brake cooling is a crucial area of focus at the Hungaroring due to its unique layout and microclimate. The circuit is situated in a natural basin, where high humidity levels combined with elevated ambient temperatures can pose serious challenges for the braking components. To address this, teams typically employ larger brake ducts to ensure sufficient airflow for both the discs and calipers, maintaining optimal operating temperatures throughout the race.
A recent example highlighting the importance of fuel and energy management came during the Belgian Grand Prix, when Lewis Hamilton had to resort to lift-and-coast techniques in the final laps to conserve fuel and avoid running out before the finish. Although the Hungaroring is not considered particularly demanding for power units—teams often choose to use slightly older engines from their allocation—it does require special attention when it comes to fuel consumption. This is primarily because the high-downforce setups lead to higher drag, and the average speed at the Hungarian track is around 30 kilometers per hour higher than at Monaco. While the circuit may appear slow and twisty, it is not as slow as it seems on paper, especially when viewed through the lens of engine and fuel efficiency.
In summary, Ferrari is entering the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend with a highly focused and technically detailed approach, aiming to make the most of its latest aerodynamic and mechanical upgrades in order to close the gap to its direct rivals and continue its momentum before the mid-season break.
Leave a Reply