Ferrari updated the SF-26 with the arrival of the first pre-season tests in Bahrain, introducing modifications that were impossible to notice with the naked eye. Here are the details regarding the first new elements brought by the engineers from Maranello.
From February 11 to 13, the first pre-season testing session took place in Bahrain, with Ferrari introducing updates to the SF-26 following the fifteen-kilometre shakedown at Fiorano and the three-day test in Barcelona. No one noticed the new features that were introduced, as they were located beneath the bodywork of the Maranello car. Let us take a closer look at where the technicians implemented the first important changes.
Visible updates alongside hidden changes
In addition to the invisible updates, Ferrari also brought new elements in areas that were clearly visible. In particular, after Day 1 in Bahrain it was possible to observe the introduction of an updated front wing compared to the version seen in Spain, and the same applies to the floor. This is because the Scuderia from Maranello initially decided to start with a “base” car, which over time is gradually taking the form of the version that will be seen in Australia for the season debut.
However, it would not be correct to speak of two different specifications, since the model remains the same despite the modifications already introduced and those that are still expected to arrive.
Ferrari and the invisible Bahrain modifications
As mentioned in the previous lines, the SF-26 in Bahrain featured an updated front wing and floor. However, according to the editorial team of Autoracer.it, there were also important changes beneath the surface. In particular, Ferrari decided to fit in Bahrain a second, more updated chassis specification, which is expected to be the one that will be seen in Melbourne. There will still be some small modifications related to this component.
It could be a lighter version, allowing the Maranello car to move closer to the minimum weight limit imposed by the FIA. Furthermore, starting from Day 2 of last week, the technicians also introduced new elements related to internal fluid dynamics.
The SF-26 is therefore increasingly taking the shape of the car that will officially appear in Australia. Up to this point, the Scuderia from Maranello has impressed from a reliability standpoint, although from a performance perspective it is still too early to make predictions.
The Prancing Horse has so far shown solidity and consistency, qualities that will now need to be confirmed during the final pre-season testing session, which will once again take place in Bahrain from February 18 to 20. The team’s approach so far has been to work quietly and with focus, hoping to once again see Ferrari fighting for the positions that matter after last year’s illusion.
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