Sakhir, Bahrain – Ferrari unveiled its first update package for the 2025 Formula 1 season at the Bahrain Grand Prix, aiming to improve the performance of its SF-25 car. The move comes after a slow start to the season, with drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton expressing the need for upgrades to compete with McLaren, Red Bull, and Mercedes.
The Italian team focused on enhancing the underbody design of the SF-25 to generate more downforce and improve overall performance. The update includes modifications to the floor fences and leading edge of the floor body, with the goal of reducing losses downstream.
In addition to changes in the floor design, Ferrari also reprofiled the expansion zone at the rear of the floor to optimize airflow into the diffuser. The team also made adjustments to the boat-tail, tunnel expansion, and rear wing pillar to enhance aerodynamic efficiency.
McLaren and Red Bull also introduced minor updates to their cars at the Bahrain Grand Prix. McLaren’s MCL39 received a new front brake duct winglet for improved aerodynamic performance, while Red Bull added an option for a longer-chord upper element on the front wing to balance downforce.
To address the increased cooling demands of the Bahrain Grand Prix, Red Bull introduced a new set of cooling louvres to expel heat from the engine bay. Haas made changes to the central outlet at the rear of its engine cover for similar cooling effects.
Many teams are expected to adjust their cooling louvre panels on the engine cover to prevent overheating of the powertrain during the race weekend. The updates and modifications made by Ferrari, McLaren, Red Bull, and Haas reflect the ongoing pursuit of performance improvements in the highly competitive world of Formula 1 racing.