Ferrari is putting the final touches on preparations for the SF-26 launch, set to debut at Fiorano in front of eager fans. The new car for Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton has been developed under the guidance of Loic Serra. However, recent reports indicate some “very negative rumors about a top team,” alongside fresh details about the Mercedes power unit that could play a key role in the 2026 season.
So far, the team led by Frédéric Vasseur appears to have preferred a quiet approach, maintaining a low profile to focus fully on the SF-26 project. Months of intensive development have been underway, and multiple sources suggest that the Mercedes engine may be favored, particularly because of a potential trick related to its compression ratio. The advantage could be significant, though it will ultimately be up to the FIA to confirm. Fans will have to wait until January 23 to see the car’s shape and livery. In the meantime, the latest rumors are raising questions about a top team’s prospects.
Ferrari under scrutiny: engine concerns and Mercedes advantage?
According to industry insiders, uncertainty surrounds several teams. Bobbi commented: “There are a lot of rumors circulating within the teams. Some very negative whispers are emerging about a top team — we hope it’s not true. I can’t say whether the Mercedes trick is real, but anyone with the Mercedes power unit has seen that it’s performing as expected. Those who have it are satisfied. That doesn’t necessarily mean it’s better than the others, but the product delivered to customer teams is meeting their expectations. Talk to the competitors, and everyone is pointing to the Mercedes engine.”
Meanwhile, Donadoni added: “Matteo was clearly referring to Ferrari. Everyone understood that. Honda and Ferrari have some questions about their power units that need clarification. To some extent, the same applies to Red Bull.” These comments were shared during a live session on AutoRacer.it. Given that this Italian source is highly reliable, especially when reporting on Maranello, the concerns are being taken seriously.
It’s important to note that it’s still January, with a long way to go until the first race of the 2026 season. However, the picture emerging is not particularly reassuring. Could this be a strategic move by Vasseur to create a positive surprise? It’s difficult to say. While such a tactic could be clever, it rarely happens — particularly when Ferrari is involved.
Leave a Reply