Charles Leclerc in the morning and Lewis Hamilton in the afternoon completed the 200 km allowed by the FIA during Ferrari’s filming day at Monza. According to early indications, the feedback related to the new energy management regulations appears to be positive, while the data gathered on the aerodynamic upgrades will require further analysis due to the lack of direct comparisons.
The Autodromo Nazionale di Monza was effectively sealed off for Ferrari’s filming day. Nevertheless, in the few areas where it was possible to catch even a small glimpse of the track, fans gathered in large numbers. Amateur videos recorded on smartphones clearly demonstrate the level of interest surrounding this commercial event, which takes place just before the Formula 1 championship resumes following a one-month break. Numerous photos were shared online, but none provided a clear view capable of confirming the exact upgrade package fitted to the SF-26.
During the morning session, Charles Leclerc, followed by Lewis Hamilton in the afternoon, focused on collecting valuable data to determine the optimal configuration that Scuderia Ferrari will use for the upcoming Miami Grand Prix. The evaluation process was not limited solely to aerodynamic aspects, but also included the revised energy management strategies resulting from regulatory changes officially announced by the FIA on April 20.
According to Nikolas Tombazis, the FIA’s Head of Single-Seater Technical Matters, the recent changes do not represent a revolution, but rather an evolution, and it cannot be ruled out that further adjustments may follow. The beneficial effects of these updates appear to have been noticeable even during the approximately twenty laps—equivalent to 100 km per driver—completed by both Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton. Despite initial concerns over possible rain, which ultimately did not materialize, sunny conditions prevailed and contributed to a more stable testing environment.
Observers were able to notice the return of the so-called “macarena wing,” although its debut during the Miami race weekend is not yet confirmed, while it is expected to deliver a clearer advantage at the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal. Additionally, the Halo flap—reportedly inspired by a similar solution seen on Red Bull, which was running simultaneously at Silverstone with Max Verstappen—was visible. However, other modifications remained hidden from view and are likely to be revealed only once the cars hit the track in Florida.
Ferrari’s engineers will now carefully evaluate all the information gathered through an extensive data analysis programme. It is worth noting, however, that the absence of direct comparison runs on the same track makes it more challenging to draw definitive conclusions regarding the SF-26’s performance gains. Those who had limited access to the garage area reported seeing cautiously optimistic expressions among team members.
Ferrari has worked intensively during the break and is aiming to turn its season around. At the same time, there is full awareness within the team that rival outfits have also been developing their packages, with all teams expected to introduce significant upgrades. As a result, it will be particularly interesting to see whether these developments will lead to a shift in the competitive order once the championship resumes in Miami.
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