Ferrari Struggles Extend Beyond Downforce as Bumps Expose Widespread Weaknesses
Imola, Italy – october 19, 2025 – Ferrari’s struggles at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix are proving more complex than simply a lack of aerodynamic downforce, with the team facing notable challenges related to the car’s handling over the circuit’s notoriously bumpy surface. The issues are impacting multiple areas of performance, hindering the team’s ability to compete effectively and raising concerns about the SF-25’s overall robustness.
The difficulties experienced at imola highlight a broader design philosophy trade-off within the Ferrari camp. While the team has focused heavily on maximizing aerodynamic efficiency, particularly in achieving a narrow sidepod design, this has seemingly come at the expense of mechanical grip and suspension compliance. The circuit’s aggressive bumps are exacerbating these weaknesses, causing instability and compromising the drivers’ confidence. This situation is particularly critical as Ferrari aims to close the gap to Red Bull Racing and McLaren in both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships.
According to technical analysis, the Haas VF-25, wich shares some design elements with the Ferrari, is demonstrating a more robust response to the bumpy conditions, suggesting that Ferrari’s specific implementation of certain concepts is contributing to the problem. While Haas has been actively developing its car, Ferrari has largely paused development, a decision now under scrutiny given the performance implications revealed at Imola.
The impact is being felt across several fronts. Drivers Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz Jr.have reported inconsistent handling, particularly in the braking zones and thru the high-speed corners. The car’s ride height sensitivity is also proving problematic, with even minor variations in track surface causing significant changes in aerodynamic performance. This instability is making it difficult for the drivers to extract maximum performance from the car, and is contributing to increased tire degradation.
The situation demands a swift response from Ferrari’s engineering team. While significant changes are unlikely in the short term, the team is expected to focus on refining the suspension setup and exploring potential aerodynamic adjustments to mitigate the impact of the bumps. The next race at [Next Race Location] will provide a crucial test of whether these adjustments can deliver tangible improvements.
