The free practice sessions in Melbourne provided further indications on the performance areas of the cars and their unique features. By analyzing the top speed data with and without DRS, it emerges that Ferrari has almost completely closed the gap in DRS efficiency compared to the reference set by Red Bull.
The purpose of the rear wing (DRS) is to reduce aerodynamic drag, or resistance to forward motion, of the car on straights (where its use is allowed) in order to facilitate overtaking. Many will recall how this aspect has been a key area of Red Bull’s recent dominance, especially in on-track battles. In fact, once the DRS was activated, the car gained so much speed that overtaking became nearly impossible for opponents.
FP2 Analysis
However, this supremacy seems to have definitely ended. As revealed by the data of speed gain when the DRS is activated, although Red Bull and its VCARB sibling remain in first position in this ranking, the gap with the others is minimal. The team that comes closest, just 2kph behind, is Ferrari, showing a clear improvement compared to past seasons.
DRS Gain Analysis Ferrari, FP2 Australia. Source F1inGenerale
It is important to note that this data is an estimate, as it depends on the aerodynamic configuration load chosen. As this increases, the drag also increases. Therefore, to assess efficiency accurately—i.e., the ratio between the generated aerodynamic load and resistance to forward motion—it would be necessary to have equal aerodynamic load configurations.
FP1 Analysis
Looking at the same data for the first free practice session, it turns out that Ferrari actually ranked first. However, since there were no substantial changes in aerodynamic load between the sessions, it is likely that this delta was due to favorable conditions such as wind or tow effects.
Source: f1ingenerale
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