Ferrari Preps SF-25 at Mugello
Ferrari is seizing the opportunity presented by cancelled races to conduct valuable testing operations at its iconic Mugello facility. The Scuderia has scheduled two days of TPC (Testing of Previous Cars) with its test driver lineup to evaluate the SF-25 during the enforced break in the 2026 season calendar.
With the Formula 1 calendar disrupted by the postponement of two consecutive grands prix, Ferrari is moving quickly to maximize track time during the unexpected hiatus. The Italian outfit has organized a dedicated testing program at Mugello, one of the sport's most historic circuits, to continue development work on its SF-25 machine.
Testing Opportunity During Calendar Gap
The cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian grands prix has created a rare window in the 2026 season schedule, and Ferrari is capitalizing on this break to conduct meaningful on-track activities. Rather than let valuable time slip away, the team has mobilized its testing apparatus to put the SF-25 through its paces at the legendary Tuscan circuit.
This two-day testing initiative, officially classified as TPC (Testing of Previous Cars), represents a strategic approach to maintaining momentum during an otherwise idle period. For a competitive team like Ferrari, every opportunity to gather data and refine their machinery is crucial in the high-stakes championship battle.
Test Team Takes the Wheel
The Mugello sessions will be handled exclusively by Ferrari's test driving roster, with no race drivers participating in the scheduled running. This decision reflects the structured nature of TPC regulations, which allow teams to utilize designated test drivers during designated testing windows throughout the season.
The test team's involvement underscores Ferrari's commitment to continuous improvement and development optimization. Even during a forced break from competition, the Scuderia recognizes the value of accumulating additional data points and evaluating potential setup modifications or technical innovations on the SF-25.
Timing and Context
The timing of these tests is particularly significant, coming immediately after the Japanese Grand Prix. Rather than lose momentum or allow extended downtime between race weekends, Ferrari is demonstrating the kind of proactive approach that separates leading teams from their competitors. The Mugello facility, located in Ferrari's home region of Tuscany, provides an ideal venue for such operations, offering comprehensive facilities and a circuit layout that demands technical precision.
The two-day program at Mugello represents more than just track running—it's a statement of intent from the Scuderia. In the competitive environment of Formula 1, where marginal gains often determine championship outcomes, these testing opportunities are invaluable for validating developments and ensuring that the SF-25 is operating at peak efficiency when the 2026 season resumes.
Original source
Motorsport.com
Related Regulations
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Full Regulation Text
Article APPENDIX B1
Previous Car Definition
Chapter: B
In Simple Terms
A 'Previous Car' is an F1 car built to the rules from up to 3 years before the current season. Teams can't sell or loan these cars to other teams or outside parties without getting permission from the FIA first.
- Previous Cars are models from the current year, minus 1, 2, or 3 years of regulations
- Teams need FIA approval before selling or making any Previous Car available to third parties
- This rule prevents unauthorized distribution of older but still competitive F1 machinery
- The restriction applies to selling, loaning, or any other form of making cars available
Official FIA Text
Previous Car (or PC) is defined as a Car which was designed and constructed in order to comply with the Regulations of any of the three (3) calendar years falling immediately prior to the calendar year preceding the year of the Championship. No Competitor may sell or make available any such Previous Car to any third party without the prior authorisation of the FIA.
Article B11.8.1
Safety Requirements for Test Activities
Chapter: B11.8
In Simple Terms
Teams can only use their F1 cars for official test sessions (TCC, TPC, TMC, or PE) if the cars have passed all required safety tests and meet current safety standards. This ensures that any car running on track during these activities is properly inspected and won't put drivers or others at risk.
- Cars must pass both static tests (visual/technical inspection) and dynamic tests (on-track performance checks) before being used in any official test activity
- All safety-related requirements from the current year's Technical Regulations must be met
- This rule applies to four types of test activities: TCC (Tire Testing), TPC (Testing Previous Cars), TMC (Test Marketing Cars), and PE (Promotional Events)
- Non-compliant cars are prohibited from participating in these activities entirely
Official FIA Text
Competitors may only participate in TCC, TPC, TMC or PE using Cars which: (a) Have been subjected to and fulfilled the requirements of the static and dynamic tests described in the Technical Regulations of the relevant year. (b) Comply with all the safety-related requirements of the Technical Regulations.
Article B11.8.4
Set-up Changes Provisions
Chapter: B11.8
In Simple Terms
Teams can make adjustments to their car's mechanical setup and driver controls during post-season tests and tire testing events. However, during special tire testing sessions, they can only make changes if those changes are actually needed to properly test the tires.
- Mechanical setup and driver control changes are allowed in post-season tests and TPC events
- Out-of-competition tire testing restricts changes to only those necessary for correct tire evaluation
- This prevents teams from using tire testing as an opportunity for general development work
Official FIA Text
For Post-Season Test and TPC: Mechanical set-up changes and driver control changes are permitted. For Out-of-Competition Tyre Testing: changes only permitted if necessary for correct evaluation of tyres.
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