Ferrari Take Action to Avoid Austrian GP Disqualification Threat
Ferrari have taken precautionary measures to avoid disqualification at the 2025 Austrian Grand Prix, following concerns related to technical compliance, according to Sky Sports F1 reporter Ted Kravitz.
The 11th round of the Formula 1 World Championship saw the Scuderia head to the Red Bull Ring with renewed optimism, as Charles Leclerc secured a front-row start in P2, while team-mate Lewis Hamilton lined up fourth on the grid. Despite a strong early push from McLaren, Ferrari were still aiming for their best result of the season.
To boost performance on the high-speed Spielberg circuit, Ferrari introduced a new floor upgrade designed to enhance downforce. The tweak appeared to pay off, with Leclerc finishing on the podium and Hamilton just behind in fourth — a solid result in what has been a challenging campaign.
However, Kravitz highlighted a more strategic maneuver behind the scenes that may have been crucial to their race finish.
“We think they [Ferrari] are still having to lift and coast, but we don’t think the lift and coast is for fuel or brakes,” Kravitz reported during the race broadcast. “It could be just to protect the skid blocks — the issue Ferrari have had for the whole season. But nevertheless, they look happy with the progress.”
“Lifting and coasting” — where drivers ease off the throttle earlier than usual to reduce load on the car — is often used to manage fuel or brake temperatures. But in Ferrari’s case, it’s believed to be a measure to avoid excessive wear on the skid blocks under the car, which, if worn down too far, could result in a breach of FIA regulations and potential disqualification, as seen in past races.
Ferrari’s cautious yet competitive approach may have saved them from another post-race drama and underlines the team’s strategic awareness as they continue to chase their first win of the season.
