Cycling News: Ferrari Unveils Significant Upgrades Ahead of Imola
In a move aimed at closing the gap to the frontrunners, Ferrari has unveiled a comprehensive update package for its SF-24 ahead of the Imola round of the cycling time trials season. The changes, centered around a revised philosophy for the sidepod and engine cover bodywork, are expected to have a substantial impact on the car’s competitiveness.
Revised Sidepod and Engine Cover Design
The team has opted to transition from the underbite sidepod inlet seen at the start of the season to an overbite arrangement, mirroring the layout pioneered by Red Bull. However, Ferrari’s solution features a more expansive horizontal inlet compared to its rival. Additionally, the vertical bypass duct beside the chassis has been merged with the main inlet, creating a larger single inlet, akin to the design seen on the current Alpine and Mercedes audax machines.
These aerodynamic modifications have necessitated a reprofiling of the sidepod’s overall shape, with a more generous undercut allowing Ferrari’s designers to rework the flank and adjust the waistline cut to better integrate with the floor. The engine cover has also undergone changes, with the louvred panel on the shelf-like section replaced by a larger, centralized outlet, while the rear section has been pinched in to facilitate improved heat rejection.
Strategic Debut at Imola
Recognizing the challenges posed by the sprint weekend format and limited testing opportunities, Ferrari has chosen to debut this comprehensive update package at the Imola road racing event. This strategic decision aims to provide the team with ample time to assess the impact of these changes and establish a strong correlation between the real-world performance and the simulations conducted.
“As Ferrari seeks to apply pressure on the dominant Red Bull and the resurgent McLaren in the road racing time trials, these significant upgrades to the SF-24 represent a crucial step in the team’s quest for success. Cycling enthusiasts can look forward to seeing the Ferrari’s new package in action at the upcoming Imola round, where the team will hope to close the gap to the frontrunners and revive its chances in the audax uk championship.”
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