Forward slip is an important parameter often used in rolling-speed control models for tandem hot strip rolling mills. In a hot strip mill, on-line measurement of strip speed is inherently very difficult. Therefore, for the set-up of the finishing mill, a forward slip model is used to calculate the strip speed from roll circumferential velocity at each mill stand. Due to its complexity, most previous researches have used semi-empirical methods in determining values for the forward slip. Although these investigations may be useful in process design and control, they do not have a theoretical basis. In the present study, a better forward slip model has been developed, which provides for a better set-up and more precise control of the mill. Factors such as neutral point, friction coefficient, width spread, shape of deformation zone in the roll bite are incorporated into the model. Implementation of the new forward slip model for the control of a 7-stand hot strip tandem rolling mill shows significant improvement in roll speed set-up accuracy.