New forward slip model has been developed for the precise prediction of rolling speed in the hot strip finishing mill. Besides those influential factors such as neutral point, work roll diameter, friction coefficient, bite angle and the thickness at each side of entry and delivery of the rolls, roll torque was specifically taken into account in this study. To consider the effect of width change on forward slip, calibration factors obtained from rolling torque has been added to new prediction model and refining method has also been developed to reduce the speed unbalance between adjacent stands. The application of the new model showed a good agreement in rolling speeds between the predictions and the actual measurements, and the standard deviation of prediction error has also been significantly reduced.