Charles Leclerc: ADUO could be key for Ferrari to reduce performance deficit. Charles Leclerc believes Ferrari could reduce the gap to rivals with ADUO power unit allowances.

The 2026 Miami Grand Prix is shaping up to be particularly intriguing from a technical standpoint. Teams have benefited from a full month-long break to focus on developing and refining upgrade packages, while the FIA has granted an additional 30 minutes to the first free practice session — extending it to 90 minutes — in order to allow more comprehensive evaluations. This extended session will be especially valuable given the Sprint format in Florida, which significantly limits track time across the weekend.

Ferrari has introduced a substantial package of upgrades, primarily focused on aerodynamics and chassis development. At the same time, the Scuderia is awaiting confirmation on whether it will be eligible for additional allowances under the ADUO system for power unit upgrades. According to the regulations, if a manufacturer is more than 2% behind the championship benchmark in terms of power, it becomes eligible for one additional upgrade. If the gap exceeds 4%, two supplementary upgrades may be permitted.

Leclerc downplays it, but ADUO could be crucial

Speaking to Sky Sport F1 microphones during media day, Charles Leclerc was asked by Mara Sangiorgio which upgrades he expects to deliver the biggest performance gains, particularly in Ferrari’s attempt to close the gap to Mercedes.

“I don’t think there is one upgrade I am looking forward to more between aerodynamics and the engine. Both are important, I am waiting for them and I hope they arrive as soon as possible. Here in Miami we will have updates related to aerodynamics and the chassis. It will already be very interesting to evaluate the progress we make compared to our rivals. Surely they will also have something to test this weekend. I expect everyone to bring almost a new car here in Florida. So we will need to see whether what we have done in the factory will be enough to close the gap.”

When it comes to the power unit, however, the situation appears more complex. In recent days, several reports have emerged, often contradicting one another. The Miami weekend is expected to provide a clearer picture of the performance index of the various power units, and most importantly, whether Ferrari will be entitled to the additional upgrade allowances aimed at helping manufacturers catch up with the leaders.

Charles Leclerc has already formed his own opinion on the matter, suggesting that Ferrari should fall at least within the first threshold — between 2% and 4% behind the benchmark.

“As for the engine, we have to wait. It is still not clear whether we will benefit from ADUO or not. I think we will (laughs). If we do qualify, then we will have to see what kind of step we can take. Compared to aerodynamics, the situation is quite different. If we are given the opportunity to upgrade the power unit, our rivals, who are currently the reference, will not be able to do so. So in that case, we can even think about closing the gap,” he concluded.

Ferrari’s hopes of reducing the performance deficit may therefore depend not only on the effectiveness of its aerodynamic and chassis updates introduced in Miami, but also on the potential advantages offered by the ADUO system — a factor that could prove decisive in shaping the balance of power in the coming races.