Ferrari have already had to address concerning rumours about their 2026 Formula 1 car. They’re due to launch the SF-26 on 23 January.
Ferrari have already had to address concerning rumours about their 2026 Formula 1 car. They’re due to launch the SF-26 on 23 January.
One report from Italy claimed that Ferrari may have to delay their launch, with team principal Fred Vasseur apparently going ‘berserk’ when he was told.
However, Motorsport.it have subsequently assured the Tifosi that the team are on schedule. They’re planning to hold a shakedown at Fiorano before the first pre-season test in Barcelona.
Ferrari didn’t win a race last year but the new regulations offer them an opportunity to become contenders again. It’s Mercedes who are widely seen as the favourites, though.
Ferrari Facing Long Wait to Match Mercedes’ 2026 Fuel Trick
Fuel compression ratios have become a major talking point this winter, with reports suggesting both Mercedes and Red Bull have found a way to exploit the 2026 regulations.
The theory is that by exceeding the permitted ratio while on track, they gain more horsepower. When the FIA checks in parc ferme, though, the car appears compliant.
Early numbers suggest this could be worth up to four-tenths of a second per lap—a major boost for Mercedes, Red Bull and their engine customers.
If it were easy to replicate, Ferrari, Honda and Audi would already be on it. But according to Auto Motor und Sport, it ‘cannot be implemented quickly’.
For Ferrari engineers, it could take months to get their heads around the ‘technically complex’ approach. By then, Mercedes and McLaren may have already pulled well ahead.
Ferrari not happy with FIA after pressure to speed up 2026 rule changes
It’s hardly surprising that the other three manufacturers are pushing hard for the FIA to make a clear decision. So far, the governing body hasn’t stepped in, but an important meeting is set to take place in Barcelona.
At the same time, it wouldn’t be shocking if Ferrari are also working on their own version of the loophole – that’s just how F1 operates.
Teams outside Mercedes are pushing for changes during the season, ideally after the summer break, instead of waiting until next year.
To push that agenda forward, Ferrari might even protest the results of the Australian Grand Prix, which opens the 2026 season.
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Category: General Sports
