A ‘Frankenstein’ braking system
As reported in recent days, the brake system solution that Lewis Hamilton has been testing since the Japanese Grand Prix was also used by Charles Leclerc during Friday running at the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona.
After experiencing braking-related difficulties in Montreal and Monaco, the Monegasque driver decided to follow the same path as his Ferrari teammate in an effort to improve confidence and consistency behind the wheel.
The setup has been described as something of a “Frankenstein” solution, combining brake discs and pads supplied by the French manufacturer Carbone Industrie with Brembo calipers, master cylinders and braking components.
This does not indicate any breakdown in the long-standing relationship between Ferrari and Brembo. The two companies have worked together for more than 50 years through a deep technological partnership that extends beyond Formula 1 to include the World Endurance Championship and Ferrari’s road-car programs. Instead, it represents a technical choice made by the team in order to provide the best possible braking feel for its drivers.
Charles Leclerc is not expecting miracles
Speaking to La Repubblica, Charles Leclerc commented on the change and remained realistic about its potential impact: “The solution I’m using here, I don’t think it will be a revolution, but I hope it gives me satisfaction. Driving is the best way to move beyond it,” said the Ferrari driver.
The reference was to the bitter disappointment he experienced at Monaco, a setback that still weighs heavily on his mind: “When a weekend goes badly it’s always painful, but at home it hurts even more. It’s a race that is more special than the others; it’s not worth only 25 points. It’s still on my mind,” Charles Leclerc admitted.
The comments underline how deeply the Monaco result affected the Ferrari driver and explain why he is willing to explore alternative technical solutions in search of greater confidence and performance as the 2026 Formula 1 season continues.
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