Ferrari 2026 F1 car takes shape: here’s when we might see the first fire-up in Maranello. Ferrari has started assembling the 2026 power unit.

Ferrari is reportedly assembling the first versions of its 2026 engine alongside the chassis, with fans eagerly awaiting the first official ‘fire-up’ of Maranello’s new power unit. The Scuderia is working tirelessly on the 2026 car, placing strong emphasis on the integration between chassis and engine. Sources indicate that Ferrari’s power unit has already undergone initial assembly, setting the stage for the first social media reveal of the new engine.

Loic Serra leads the technical project

The 2026 Ferrari will be developed under the guidance of technical director Loic Serra. He is focusing heavily on the interaction between the tires and the car, bringing major changes to both front and rear suspension design. Maranello aims to place tire performance at the center of the development process. Rumors suggest Mercedes might currently have a slight edge, with Ferrari closely behind. The departures of Zimmermann and Schmidt are not expected to affect the power unit development led by Enrico Gualtieri, but for now, it is impossible to rank the teams hypothetically. Reliability remains a key priority, especially with the increased role of battery management in the hybrid system.

Initial engine assembly and upcoming fire-up

According to Formula1.it, the first incomplete engines without accessories have been seen in Ferrari’s engine department, marking the start of the assembly process for the 2026 car. The chassis passed the FIA homologation crash test a few weeks ago. The work on the car’s radiating masses allows aerodynamics chief Diego Tondi and his team to explore bold bodywork designs. Power unit components have been in production for some time, and it appears the 2026 Ferrari is beginning to take shape. Integrating the chassis and engine is crucial to commence the mounting process.

The first engine start, commonly referred to as the ‘fire-up,’ is expected between late December and early January. During this period, Ferrari is likely to share a first ‘roar’ of the 2026 power unit on social media. Maximum attention will be paid to completing the car with all minor components. The official car launch and on-track debut of the Scuderia’s new machine are expected during the week of January 20, ahead of the private tests scheduled in Barcelona from January 26 to 30.