Charles Leclerc has expressed satisfaction with the work Ferrari has carried out on the SF-26.
As teams prepare for the first race of the 2026 season, it is possible to analyze the progress made so far with the new cars. Charles Leclerc highlighted the positive feedback Ferrari has received with the SF-26. The team has not faced any major problems, which certainly gives them an advantage compared to the difficulties encountered by their rivals.
The Monegasque driver still sees Mercedes as the favorite, but the leading package could be very close. In Maranello, this year the focus has been on keeping a low profile, directing attention more toward other teams. The real picture will only be revealed in Melbourne, where teams will no longer hide their performance with varying fuel loads and engine mappings.
Leclerc and his impressions of Ferrari’s 2026 car
Together with Lewis Hamilton, car number 16 has already completed a significant number of laps with the new car, both in testing and on the simulator. Charles Leclerc’s comments, given in an exclusive interview with Corriere dello Sport, highlight Ferrari’s work with the SF-26. Completing the full program planned by the team represents a definite advantage at the start of the season.
“We worked well; it was a very well-structured test. Everything flowed perfectly, we had no major issues, and we completed our plans,” the Monegasque driver said. “Now we need to focus on the details. What we needed to understand, we have verified. Not having any setbacks was very positive because in the past, it hasn’t always been like this.”
Winning chances with the new regulations
Starting fresh with a new technical cycle is the best way to bounce back after the challenges of 2025. Leclerc preferred to remain calm, waiting to see the real competitive values against rival teams. Beyond the performance we will see in Melbourne, it will also be crucial for teams to provide consistent development to their car throughout the season.
“It’s too early to make predictions because we have no idea of the potential of our rivals. We don’t know who is truly ahead at this moment. Mercedes, McLaren, and Red Bull already seem well-prepared, very strong, and relatively close, but Mercedes may be slightly ahead,” Charles added ahead of the Australian Grand Prix, which is set to take place this weekend at the Albert Park circuit.
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