Ferrari returned to the track during its filming day, showcasing several minor aerodynamic updates, including a small wing mounted on the halo and a series of experimental wing configurations. However, these developments appear to have a limited impact when compared to the true decisive factor at this stage of the Formula 1 season: the power unit.
Ferrari at the filming day: what was seen on track
Ferrari’s return to action during the filming day attracted significant attention, particularly due to the technical details that emerged from images circulating on social media. Among the most noticeable elements was the reappearance of the mini wing positioned on the halo, a solution that had already been seen in prototype form and is likely still undergoing evaluation.
At the same time, the Maranello-based team tested several aerodynamic configurations, including one that is informally referred to within the paddock as the “macarena wing.” These solutions fall within the expected development path of the aerodynamic package, having been planned well in advance and not necessarily indicating an immediate step forward in performance.
Aerodynamic updates: limited real impact
Despite the strong media focus, these updates appear to be more visually striking than truly decisive. At this stage of the championship, where regulations significantly restrict development freedom, aerodynamic upgrades tend to deliver only marginal gains.
Other teams like Red Bull have also introduced comparable components during parallel test runs, further confirming a broader technical convergence toward incremental refinements rather than major innovations. As a result, the performance gains remain modest and are unlikely to significantly alter the competitive order on track.
The real decisive factor: the power unit
At this point in the season, performance differences seem to be primarily linked to the power unit. It is not just a matter of peak horsepower, but rather of overall efficiency, particularly in terms of energy recovery and hybrid system management.
This aspect is far less visible than aerodynamic changes, yet it has a much greater influence on lap time. For this reason, even a highly efficient chassis can become secondary if it is not supported by a competitive power unit package.
The limitations of a filming day for engine testing
By regulation, a filming day offers extremely limited technical opportunities. Teams cannot replicate race conditions or carry out meaningful reliability testing.
As a consequence, any updates to the power unit cannot be properly evaluated in this context. Engine development remains largely confined to dyno testing and official race sessions, making the filming day more useful for basic system checks and media production than for in-depth performance analysis.
Towards Miami: more questions than answers
Ferrari’s filming day has generated interest and discussion, but it has also left many questions unanswered. In particular, the real state of development of the power unit remains unclear, as does the potential use of the so-called “ADUO,” for which no official confirmation has yet been provided.
The upcoming round in Miami will represent a more reliable benchmark, although the first free practice sessions are likely to offer only limited insights. Only under full race conditions will it be possible to assess the true competitive picture.
Final analysis
The updates shown by Ferrari during the filming day represent a normal phase of technical evolution, but they are not a decisive factor. The key to competitiveness remains the power unit, particularly in terms of energy management and overall hybrid efficiency.
In an increasingly restrictive regulatory environment, aerodynamic gains are becoming smaller, while the advantage is shifting toward less visible yet more impactful areas. Miami will provide the first real test to determine whether Ferrari has closed the gap or whether the deficit remains closely tied to engine performance.
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