Ferrari tests components for 2026 car during FP1 at 2025 Mexico GP

Ferrari tests components for 2026 car during FP1 at 2025 Mexico GP. During FP1 of the 2025 Mexico GP, Ferrari topped the session.

Ferrari SF-25 rear wing, power unit, engine

During FP1 of the 2025 Mexico Grand Prix, Ferrari tested a component that will appear on their 2026 car. Here’s a detailed analysis of what was tested and the session results. Ferrari finished the first practice session with Charles Leclerc in first place and Antonio Fuoco in twentieth, marking the start of preliminary tests for the next season.

The Maranello team arrived in Mexico following a strong performance in Austin, where Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton finished third and fourth respectively. In this first free practice session, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton was replaced by Antonio Fuoco at the wheel of the SF-25, according to FIA regulations. Given Mexico’s high-altitude track and thinner air, a high-downforce setup was used despite the long straights. Power units were expected to work harder, with Ferrari taking necessary precautions to avoid risks.

Ferrari and early 2026 tests

Both Charles Leclerc and Antonio Fuoco began on the hardest tires, the hards, conducting track reconnaissance and completing nine laps before returning to the pits. Due to issues with F1 TV, onboard footage and other key data were unavailable, but Sky Sport F1 confirmed that Ferrari conducted 2026-oriented tests with both drivers. Both Ferrari drivers used an initial version of the seat that will be implemented next season. Fuoco continued on the hard compound, while Leclerc switched to the softer red tires for his stint.

The Monegasque driver briefly claimed first position, ahead of Kimi Antonelli and Nico Hulkenberg. However, this performance is not particularly indicative, as the weekend is still in its early stages. Charles Leclerc later performed a short race-pace simulation on the hard tires used earlier, completing 4–5 consistent and competitive laps, although comparisons with other teams remain limited due to unknown energy and fuel strategies. Meanwhile, Antonio Fuoco ran laps on the softer compound but without pushing. Finally, Charles Leclerc conducted another brief race-pace simulation using the soft tires.

Overall, this FP1 session offers limited insights, as the track is still ‘green’ and many rookies were running. Evaluating Ferrari’s performance will remain difficult until at least FP3, when more representative data becomes available.