F1 returns this weekend at the Dutch GP, where the battle at the front will rage on. Several teams are in contention for victory, with fine margins deciding the podium positions. The development race is still in full swing, as the final upgrades of 2024 are finalised before teams switch their focus to next season. Ferrari are set to bring an important upgrade package to Zandvoort, designed to correct previous missteps with the SF-24.
Ferrari work to fix previous mistakes
In the early stages of the season, Ferrari were the closest challengers to Red Bull. However, McLaren and Mercedes have both taken steps forward to establish themselves as genuine contenders.
The two Mercedes-powered teams have made greater progress than anyone else this season.
That said, Ferrari’s decline is largely self-inflicted. The upgrades introduced to the SF-24 in Spain did not produce the impact anticipated in the simulator.
In theory, the modifications were intended to generate more aerodynamic load. However, the consequence of this increased downforce was the return of bouncing – creating instability and forcing Ferrari to make set-up compromises.
After mitigating this issue in Hungary and Belgium, corrections will arrive this weekend to definitively fix this issue.
As reported by it.motorsport.com, Ferrari are ready to debut a new floor. Maranello’s technical department has made modifications to address the rear instability that has plagued the SF-24 in recent months.
Changes to airflow at the rear suspension and diffuser should make a difference this weekend. The aim is to give Leclerc and Sainz a more predictable baseline, unlocking more performance and – simultaneously – driver confidence.
A critical juncture for Fred Vasseur’s team
These upgrades are critical for several reasons. In the short-term, the updates will determine if Ferrari can re-assert themselves in the battle against Red Bull, Mercedes and McLaren.
The Italian squad must reverse the trajectory that has seen them become the fourth-fastest team.
Arguably more pressingly, Ferrari’s next changes will impact their success in 2025. Like most teams, the Scuderia are formulating their package for next season.
If they cannot create a stable aerodynamic platform with the SF-24, then doubts will emerge about their concept for 2025.
Teams will be eager to begin work on their 2026 cars at the very beginning of next year. Therefore, Ferrari have a relatively small window to undo their mistakes from earlier in the campaign.
