Ferrari evolves its F-duct

Ferrari introduced this system during the Spanish Grand Prix, for the first European race of the season. But the Team was not very satisfied with her contribution. First of all, activating this system proved to be perilous, the driver having to let go of the steering wheel to activate it, by blocking a hole with the back of his hand. Then, aerodynamic losses in fast curves were detected. However, it is precisely in this sector that cars need support, otherwise they will understeer.

« We have modified the F-duct a bit in terms of its activation by the driver », confides Felipe Massa to us. Fernando Alonso confirms to us and adds that the system has evolved in its general functioning. “ It was perfected to solve the problem encountered in Barcelona. We had small losses of aerodynamic downforce in the fast curves because of the F-duct. But we will continue to improve it. »

This system was controversial at the start of the season, with some team managers claiming that it was not in line with the regulations. But the FIA ​​had validated this innovation of McLaren and, as with the multi-stage diffuser, most teams have tried to adapt it. As a reminder, the F-duct designates a system allowing a flow of air to penetrate under the hull of the car and to be blown onto the rear wing, in order to remove part of the aerodynamic downforce at this location in a straight line, allowing a higher peak speed.