The chassis was designed by Aldo Costa, Simone Resta, Tiziano Battistini, Marco Fainello, John Iley and Marco de Luca with Mario Almondo playing a vital role in leading the production of the car as the team's Executive Technical Director and with Giles Simon in charge of the engine and electronics division assisted by David Salters (engine design and development) and Mattia Binotto (engine operations).

[2] It was first launched online on 12 January 2009, and Felipe Massa undertook the debut run of the car with a shakedown at Mugello later that day.

[3] The car was initially intended to debut at Ferrari's home Fiorano track,[4] but the venue was changed due to poor weather conditions at Maranello.

Ferrari removed the large airflow plates and replaced it with a small one, also adjusting some underside air flow.

The FIA's ban on small side wings led to the creation of a "cleaner" sidepods acceptable of the smaller engine, and a smooth underside of the chassis.

[9] They eventually finished fourth in the constructors standings, just behind McLaren, and making 2009 the worst season for Ferrari since 1993.