The first upgrade package for Ferrari is expected to arrive in Miami after a 200 km filming day, but here is a breakdown of which areas of the SF-26 will undergo the biggest changes, also affecting the overall weight of the car.
The Maranello-based team has approved the upgrade package that will debut at the Miami Grand Prix and will be tested in Monza on 22 April during a 200 km filming day, where the so-called “Macarena” wing will also be evaluated. These updates will bring significant modifications to the SF-26, with positive consequences also in terms of weight reduction.
The Prancing Horse is preparing to make major changes to its current single-seater. The car is excellent in aerodynamic and mechanical terms, but it runs with an internal combustion engine similar to the 2025 specification, which offers very limited development potential. The new ICE will not arrive before mid-July, and it remains to be seen how ADUO could help in the meantime. The project designed by Wolf Zimmermann, now at Audi, was considered unsuccessful, which is why Ferrari opted for a “plan B”. The latest addition comes from the FE programme and will be useful in optimising electrical energy management and improving hybrid efficiency. Meanwhile, interesting details are emerging regarding the developments planned for Miami.
New front wing for the SF-26 and more
It has been known for some time that certain updates were originally planned for Bahrain, but everything was delayed due to the cancellation of the April races. As a result, Ferrari will now have what can be described as “one and a half upgrade packages”, with elements accumulated and prepared over time. Of course, at the Miami and Montreal rounds all teams are expected to bring their most significant updates, and we could see major performance shifts.
The SF-26, according to reports from the Italian website AutoRacer.it, will receive an updated concept for the front wing (previously the most conservative area of the car) as well as changes in the diffuser zone, specifically the FTM area, which refers to the small wing element located in front of the exhaust.
Almost half of the car will effectively be evolved. This also ties into weight reduction, as several components will undergo a “diet programme” while maintaining similar external shapes. In addition, Ferrari in Maranello is working continuously to refine the “Macarena” wing, which could deliver a significant gain in top speed to challenge Mercedes’ dominance. According to the latest reports, the overall balance has already been optimised.
In general, the upgrades will also aim to reduce drag and improve aerodynamic efficiency. Expectations are high for these developments, especially because they represent a crucial turning point in Ferrari’s season.
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