Ferrari’s aggressive development strategy to challenge Mercedes’ W17
Ferrari could gain several tenths of a second thanks to its latest upgrades, focusing on a key element of the SF-26. Here’s a full breakdown of what’s happening in Maranello.
At Maranello, engineers are working tirelessly to enhance an already strong SF-26, which, however, still suffers from a significant power deficit compared to the Mercedes W17. The battle between Mercedes and Ferrari is not just on track—it also plays out through continuous updates, and the incoming innovations on the Ferrari could deliver valuable tenths by addressing a crucial aspect of the car.
Filming day at Monza to test major updates
Ferrari has decided to take the SF-26 to Monza for a filming day. The car will complete 200 km, split evenly between Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton. During this session, the team will test the substantial upgrade package set to debut on the Maranello car during the American round of the season. But the schedule includes additional activities as well.
The Italian team will also try out the final specification of the Macarena wing, hoping to introduce a version in time for the test. Originally, the rotating flap was planned to debut in Canada. Small hydraulic issues were detected in Shanghai, which affected closing performance and braking zones. Some tests were also conducted on energy delivery. Now, further details are emerging about Ferrari’s first major upgrade package of the season.
Precise upgrade strategy: a lighter SF-26
According to AutoRacer.it, the SF-26 is an excellently designed car, and Maranello has a clear development plan. Loic Serra aims to introduce minor updates each weekend, alongside more significant packages spread across multiple races. This is an aggressive but calculated strategy.
Several components have already arrived in China, including the halo wing, which Ferrari later removed under FIA pressure. The original wing design was fully legal within volume regulations and is expected to return, possibly made with thinner material. Furthermore, the Miami upgrades, tested during the Monza filming day in April, will make the car lighter. Weight plays a significant role, and the gain could exceed one-tenth of a second. While the exact current overweight status of the SF-26 is unknown, it is expected to be minimal.
Strong starts and improved tire management
Ferrari still has an advantage off the line despite the ‘Pre-Start’ procedure, which gives rivals five extra seconds to better prepare the turbo. It’s remarkable how the SF-26 can heat the tires effectively and return to the ideal operating window without increasing tire stress. This was a major challenge in 2025, but the suspension now provides excellent management, coupled with high aerodynamic downforce.
The Macarena wing is likely to appear again on the SF-26 in Suzuka for further testing, as some wind tunnel calibrations cannot be replicated on track. The final specification is also expected to be tested at the Monza filming day. Finally, we see a bold Ferrari that continues to push development forward, aiming to close the gap to Mercedes thanks to the ADUO.
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