Ferrari has been struggling with a persistent braking issue that forces the team to rely heavily on the so-called “LICO” technique during races. But how much lap time does this strategy actually cost the Scuderia? Here’s what recent data reveals and where the problem originates.
Throughout the 2025 Formula 1 season, Ferrari engineers and drivers have often referred to “LICO” — a term that indicates coasting, where the driver lifts off the throttle earlier before braking zones. This technique helps lower brake temperatures and reduces fuel consumption. However, it also results in a significant loss of performance. The SF-25 has been particularly affected by this limitation, and new information sheds light on the scale of the issue and its causes.
The races in Austin and Mexico proved to be positive weekends for the Maranello team. As previously reported, Charles Leclerc’s work during the American Sprint race allowed Ferrari to test various configurations for the differential and the brake-by-wire system. The braking balance was then shifted slightly toward the rear axle, leading to a more stable setup and better management of front brake temperatures. In Mexico, the smooth asphalt surface allowed Ferrari to lower the car’s ride height without damaging the floor, with specific solutions implemented to combat heat buildup.
The Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez circuit sits over 2,000 meters above sea level, and the thin air at that altitude makes it difficult for mechanical components to cool effectively. Ferrari therefore introduced updates to the rear brake ducts of the SF-25 — a targeted upgrade that shows how much effort the team is investing in this area. Still, the problem cannot be fully solved, and the time losses remain significant.
Ferrari loses between 12 and 15 seconds per race — no room for furious comebacks
According to data reported by AutoRacer.it, Ferrari loses between 12 and 15 seconds over the course of a race due to “LICO”. This figure was specifically observed in Mexico. The Scuderia’s current technical configuration prevents the drivers from pushing the car to its full potential, even when running in clean air. A comeback drive like the one Max Verstappen pulled off against Charles Leclerc in the closing laps would be impossible for either Leclerc or Lewis Hamilton under these conditions.
The brake issue first appeared back in 2024, but with the SF-25 it has become even more critical, especially in certain track conditions. Unfortunately, it’s not something that can be completely fixed within the current season.
The new brake ducts introduced in Mexico are part of a series of components pre-planned to adapt to different circuit characteristics, rather than a permanent solution to the core problem. As previously mentioned, eliminating it entirely is simply not possible under the current design. Ferrari hopes that the 2026 car — developed under the new regulations — will be designed with technical choices that prevent this issue from returning. Every team uses some level of coasting during a race, but no one applies “LICO” as much as the Scuderia Ferrari does right now.
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