Ferrari Considers Suspension Overhaul for 2025 Campaign
Ferrari is reportedly weighing its options to transition from its current push-rod suspension to a Red Bull-inspired pull-rod solution in time for the 2025 Formula 1 season. This contemplation comes as the Italian marque enjoys a strong start to the current season, with two victories from the opening eight races, placing them second in the Constructors’ standings.
The team introduced a substantial upgrade package at Imola last month, which enabled Charles Leclerc to secure a win in Monaco. However, Ferrari boss Frederic Vasseur has acknowledged that the team is finding it increasingly challenging to unlock gains due to the cost cap and current regulations.
“With the cost cap and the current regulation, you have to manage both sides and we will bring upgrades when we have something to bring,” Vasseur explained. “What you have to keep in mind is that you have a kind of convergence of performance and the development rate is much lower than it was two years ago.”
Vasseur revealed that the team is already working on next season’s car, with the workforce in Maranello split between developing the 2025 chassis and delivering updates to the SF-24. While the team has given the green light to the 2025 car, work has also started on the 2026 power unit, with Ferrari hypothesizing concepts for the chassis and aerodynamics despite the lack of regulations.
Potential Gains with Pull-Rod Suspension
Sources close to the team suggest that Ferrari has identified potential areas for significant gains in time for 2025, when Lewis Hamilton arrives from Mercedes. One such area could be the front suspension, with Ferrari assessing the adoption of a pull-rod suspension over the push-rod structure. This move would require a complete chassis revamp but could provide a clear aerodynamic advantage, particularly in terms of airflow around the front of the car and the venturi tunnels located on the floor.
Notably, both McLaren and Red Bull have adopted a pull-rod suspension since the current regulations debuted in 2022. Ferrari Technical Director Enrico Cardile previously discussed the team’s suspension, stating:
“In reality, our rear suspension is a bit different in terms of top and lower wishbone distribution compared to a Red Bull one, to mention one team. We recorded good aero results moving towards this direction and when moving from pull-rod to push-rod, we didn’t measure a big advantage to justify some compromise in terms of weight or compliance. So, from there, we evolved our suspension, keeping the same layout.”
Autosport, Feb 26, 2023.
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