F1 | Ferrari shows a new feature in Abu Dhabi: hint at 2026?
During the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend, Ferrari hit the track with a new feature that could be a hint at what’s coming in 2026. At this stage of the season, no one expected to see anything novel on the track. Yet Ferrari decided to present a car in Abu Dhabi with a modification that might also offer clues about the new regulatory cycle set to debut in 2026.
The modification on Arthur Leclerc’s car
The detail was immediately noticed by keen observers, with images quickly circulating on social media. Looking inside the cockpit of Arthur Leclerc, who replaced Lewis Hamilton for FP1 at Yas Marina, as other rookies did, it was clear there was a difference compared to Charles Leclerc’s SF-25.
Specifically, the steering wheel used by the younger Leclerc appears to have a different shape than what we are used to seeing. At the top, there is a thicker section that could help improve driver grip or accommodate new buttons that will be required in 2026. The design resembles what has been used in WEC cars.
With the new regulations, we will see entirely new engines on track. For this reason, teams will need to rethink the buttons and controls on their steering wheels, potentially requiring a change in shape to accommodate new functions and improve ergonomics for the drivers.
Arthur Leclerc completed his programme without complaint, suggesting the experimental wheel performed as expected. Whether we see it again on Charles or Lewis’s car later in the weekend remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – Ferrari just gave us the first public glimpse of what their drivers might be holding when the new era begins in just over a year.
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