McLaren engineers’ theories on Ferrari SF-25 issues: the reality might be very different
McLaren engineers have reportedly developed some theories regarding the problems plaguing the Ferrari SF-25. In reality, there appear to be several factors at play that differ from the widely discussed explanations so far. After winter predictions of strong performance, the Italian team now faces an extremely complex car from which achieving significant results has become difficult. McLaren engineers, however, believe that the SF-25’s issues stem from different factors, and here are their main theories.
Ferrari SF-25 struggles beyond the suspension
In a recent article, we analyzed how the work on the rear suspension has failed to bring any real advantages. Moreover, it is worth noting that in the last three races, Ferrari has scored fewer points than both Red Bull Racing and Williams. These results are particularly alarming, especially when looking ahead to 2026. There are several doubts about the technical team, as the new car’s project is being developed by the same engineers. Loic Serra will have to prove that he deserves the role of Technical Director, a position he has never held before in his career.
It is well known that the SF-25 suffers from structural mechanical issues that have affected excessive wear on the plank. According to some McLaren engineers’ theories, however, the situation is very different from the usual narrative.
What McLaren engineers think about the SF-25
Italian Sky Sport F1 journalist Matteo Bobbi revealed that he spoke with several rival engineers in the paddock, particularly those working at McLaren. From these conversations, it emerges that the wear issues on the SF-25’s plank are largely overblown. The reality, according to McLaren engineers, is that the car is simply poorly designed and structurally flawed. Ferrari is currently adopting these ride heights to try to improve performance. Even McLaren could implement similar adjustments and potentially gain an additional three-tenths of a second.
One thing is certain: this car is unlikely to win a race in its current state. Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton are closer in performance than before, but in Baku, the SF-25 became unstable due to its high sensitivity to temperature changes. Tire warm-up has been a long-standing issue at Maranello. It is hoped that Serra, with his expertise in vehicle and tire dynamics, can finally get everything working optimally. Expectations are not high, but only on-track performance will ultimately reveal the truth.
