Ferrari unveiled its new car last night. It did so via social media, in an F1 event that took place at the O2 Arena in London—a showy, American-style spectacle that frankly seemed unnecessary and gaudy. Fortunately, the red car hit the track this morning at the Fiorano circuit. It rolled onto the track surface for the first time in a surreal atmosphere filled with passion. Fans crowded around the circuit in large numbers for this first shakedown, which captivated all of Maranello. But then again, it could not have been otherwise when the most famous team in the world is involved.
Ferrari has been running on track on Wednesday. The Maranello-based F1 team decided to use the first slot for commercial filming—a very useful move to test the new car and, as much as possible given the limits imposed by the International Federation, gather initial feedback on the SF-25. The weather conditions were not great, but it was not expected to rain. Charles Leclerc completed the customary installation lap at 9:30 AM to check that all the car’s functions were working correctly.
The test went well, and the Monegasque began stringing together several laps, alternating push laps with cooldown laps. Then, on the second run, a power unit issue arose. A problem forced the mechanics to work on the lubrication system, as a fluid leak brought the red car’s run to a halt. Fortunately, the issue was quickly resolved. During this time, an initial briefing took place. The work program then continued without further setbacks. In these cases, considering that it is a filming day, the Italian team has to carefully manage the mileage.
Data collection has been solid, even considering the limitations on top speed. To give a first impression of the new F1 car, we can say it appears well-balanced. The front end of the Ferrari SF-25 seemed solid, with the rear following the front quite well. The car’s behavior, in the run after a roughly 35-minute stop, appeared generally understeery. Charles Leclerc did not hold back and, from the first lap, tried to push the red car into the corners. His adaptation was very good, showing clean and overall well-manageable handling.
Following this initial run, the Ferrari driver returned to the garage to allow the mechanics to adjust the car’s setup. The change was evident in the next run, where the car’s behavior was different. Oversteer became more pronounced. According to information reported by the Italian media, Ferrari attempted to correct the lack of rotation with a more extreme setup. After all, in these early stages, the goal is to understand the car as much as possible and see how it reacts to various changes. It is crucial to determine the car’s operating range.
Considering lap times with the new car is rather pointless, given the track conditions and the nature of the event. In the final run, Charles Leclerc carried out several practice starts. He also pushed again, searching for the limit with a very sharp front end. A good first outing for Charles Leclerc, despite the minor setback. Then, a lunch break followed, after which the seven-time F1 world champion made his debut with the Ferrari SF-25. The Briton followed a program similar to his Maranello teammate’s. We eagerly await to comment on Lewis Hamilton’s performance as well.
— see video above —
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