Formula 1 is already entering the stage of the season where the first ruthless verdicts begin to emerge. With the initial ADUO evaluation period approaching its conclusion, the championship is set to reveal a clearer hierarchy among the manufacturers that developed the new-generation 2026 power units. Unsurprisingly, Ferrari finds itself at the centre of the debate.
While it is undeniable that the Italian power unit currently suffers a significant deficit in outright power compared to the benchmark Mercedes engine, describing Ferrari’s project as a failure would be both unfair and misleading. Such criticism overlooks what many in Maranello see as one of the biggest political controversies of the season so far.
A technical breakthrough neutralized by politics?
Ferrari’s engineers were fully aware that the removal of the MGU-H under the 2026 regulations would create major challenges in maintaining turbocharger speed, particularly during launch phases where responsiveness is critical. To address this issue, the Maranello technical department made a bold and highly calculated design choice: adopting smaller turbocharger turbines.
The reduced diameter resulted in lower rotational inertia, allowing the power unit to react much more quickly at lower engine speeds. The benefits were immediately visible. During pre-season testing, the SF-26 consistently produced outstanding starts, giving Ferrari a significant tactical advantage when the lights went out.
For a brief period, the concept appeared to be a genuine masterstroke.
However, Ferrari’s advantage soon became the subject of intense discussion throughout the paddock. Several rival teams raised concerns regarding the new starting procedures, arguing that the situation created potential safety risks. In response, the FIA revised and extended the starting sequence from the very first race of the season.
From Ferrari’s perspective, the change effectively removed much of the advantage generated by its innovative solution.
Frederic Vasseur’s frustration with the FIA
Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur openly addressed the issue in a recent interview with The Race, expressing his disappointment over how events unfolded.
“The compromise was: do we want to gain one tenth per lap or lose five positions at the start? If you ask the engineers, they will tell you: fine, we want to have a good start. We went to the FIA a year ago to discuss it, and I really appreciated the FIA’s answer: ‘You have to design the car according to the regulations, not design the regulations according to your car.’
“Then half the grid complained, saying the situation was extremely dangerous. From a political point of view, it was a well-played move, but not a very fair one.”
The Frenchman’s comments reflected obvious frustration with what he views as institutional inconsistency. Yet they also highlighted a deeper concern within Ferrari: the perception that the team no longer possesses the political influence it once enjoyed at the highest levels of Formula 1.
The Montezemolo era feels far away
For many Ferrari supporters, this episode shows how dramatically Formula 1’s political landscape has changed. There was a time when Ferrari’s voice carried enormous weight within the sport, particularly during the leadership of Luca Cordero di Montezemolo.
Back then, Maranello was widely regarded as one of the most influential forces in Formula 1, capable of shaping discussions at the highest levels through its status, history and commercial importance.
Today, critics argue that Ferrari appears far more vulnerable to decisions made by governing bodies and rival teams. The controversy surrounding the starting procedure has only intensified those concerns.
As a result, questions are increasingly being asked about the role of Ferrari’s senior leadership. Where is chief executive officer Benedetto Vigna? Where is chairman John Elkann?
Many observers believe that leaving Frederic Vasseur to fight these political battles alone is not a sustainable strategy. If Ferrari wants to defend its interests more effectively, they argue, the team’s leadership must become more visible and more assertive in Formula 1’s political arena.
A critical moment for Ferrari’s future influence
Supporters of the Scuderia believe that Ferrari must rediscover the determination and political strength that once characterized the team’s approach to Formula 1 governance. They see regulation changes introduced during the season under the banner of safety as a worrying precedent, particularly when those changes appear to affect competitive balance.
Some have even suggested that Ferrari should be prepared to use its historical significance as leverage when dealing with Formula 1’s governing bodies and commercial rights holders.
One thing is certain: the debate surrounding Ferrari’s 2026 power unit extends far beyond horsepower figures and technical specifications. It has become a discussion about influence, political power and Ferrari’s position within modern Formula 1.
Whether the Scuderia can regain both its competitive and political strength may prove just as important as solving the performance deficit that currently separates it from the front of the field.
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