After analyzing the information, Ferrari has determined to undertake low-downforce specs for each drivers for the remainder of the Baku Grand Prix weekend. Yesterday, the staff left followers questioning which setup selection they might make forward of qualifying and the race.
Aerodynamic updates for the weekend
For the weekend, Ferrari launched a modified entrance wing and two completely different rear wing configurations. These rear wings are the identical specification debuted in Belgium, with one that includes trims that cut back aerodynamic load, making it much less “loaded.”
All through the weekend, Ferrari drivers examined and alternated between the 2 aerodynamic options earlier than making a call for the rest of the occasion. Charles Leclerc briefly tried the high-downforce specification however deserted it for the remainder of the weekend. Lewis Hamilton, alternatively, examined each choices and opted for the higher-downforce wing throughout FP2, which helped him set the quickest lap.
Standards behind the selection
Utilizing a higher-downforce wing offers higher braking, nook entry, and stability by way of turns, however reduces prime pace. Conversely, the low-downforce wing will increase straight-line pace on the expense of cornering stability, the place diminished downforce can result in sliding and tire overheating.
The Baku avenue circuit options quite a few straights, together with the principle straight—the longest on the F1 calendar. The corners are sharp and right-angled, requiring primarily longitudinal grip, favoring braking and traction over cornering pace. The presence of such a protracted straight closely influences aerodynamic setup selections, typically pushing groups towards a really low-downforce configuration.
Ferrari takes the gamble
After analyzing the primary two follow periods, Ferrari selected a lower-downforce setup in comparison with what was used yesterday on Hamilton’s automobile, which was the quickest on Friday. In FP3, the English driver additionally ran the identical low-downforce rear wing specification adopted by his teammate Charles Leclerc. As confirmed by Marc Gené, the staff discovered this selection advantageous based mostly on qualifying and race simulations.
The choice was doubtless influenced by the fast evolution of grip on the observe, which might assist the SF-25 compensate for its decrease cornering grip. The extraordinarily lengthy straight additionally performed a task, as rivals are additionally favoring low-downforce setups. Matching them helps keep away from massive gaps in prime pace, which might make overtaking or defending unimaginable.
In FP3, Ferrari confirmed encouraging indicators, however opponents additionally look like in glorious kind. McLaren begins as a favourite, however the Azerbaijan Grand Prix guarantees to be an unpredictable weekend, doubtlessly stuffed with surprises.
Sep 20, 2025
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