iRacing’s 2025 Season 3 build delivered Balance of Performance (BoP) changes across GT3. The Ferrari 296 GT3 received a small weight increase and aero balance adjustment aimed at tightening spread versus the class. Here’s what changed and how to adapt.
Patch Highlights
- +5 kg ballast applied to the 296 GT3
- Front aero balance nudged forward for stability under trail braking
- Tire compound behavior refined for more consistent wear in long stints
Why These Changes?
In multi‑make series, Ferrari tended to edge rivals on tire retention at high‑speed circuits while maintaining strong single‑lap pace. The small ballast and aero tweak trim that advantage without changing the car’s identity.
On‑Track Impact
- Entry: Slightly calmer rotation; you can brake a touch deeper but must wait a beat longer to commit to apex.
- Mid‑Corner: More planted front end reduces the “edgy” feeling in fast sweepers.
- Exit: Traction is a hair more predictable—easier to apply throttle without provoking snaps.
Setup Tips After the Update
- Recover rotation with 0.1° more rear toe‑out or a small rear ARB softening.
- If front bite feels dull, try −0.1° front toe‑in or a click less front rebound.
- Endurance focus: +0.1 bar rear tire pressure to keep temps even over long stints.
Series & Strategy
In GT World Challenge‑style races, expect closer spreads over a stint and fewer outlier stints from Ferrari‑heavy teams. In IMSA/endurance, the calmer balance should reduce small off‑track mistakes in traffic. Qualifying may be fractionally slower; race pace should be more repeatable.
For a refresher on the car’s core traits, see the 296 GT3 Overview and driving approach in the Setup & Tips. Class‑wide context lives in our GT3 roundup when relevant.
