The Prancing Horse completed its first filming day of the season in a highly controlled environment at Monza, working under strict conditions in an effort to keep details hidden from prying eyes. Despite these precautions, some images still emerged as fans managed to capture glimpses of Ferrari’s running, including the much-discussed upgrade package featuring a new version of the “Macarena” wing. Early indications and visual evidence now provide a first verdict on whether these developments will be introduced in Miami and fitted to the SF-26.
During the day, Ferrari split running duties between its two drivers. Charles Leclerc completed 19 laps in the morning session, finishing his programme around 1:00 PM. Lewis Hamilton then took over the SF-26 at approximately 2:00 PM, successfully completing his full 100 km allocation and recording 20 laps. In total, the Ferrari car covered 39 laps, with the Briton setting the team’s fastest time of the day at 1:26.585.
Ferrari unveils refined version of the ‘Macarena’ wing
As reported by AutoRacer.it, there was little doubt that the “Macarena” wing would return during this filming day, but in an improved and further refined configuration addressing previous weaknesses. At Maranello, engineers have revised the mounting pylons, which now appear more inclined compared to the earlier version.
These design changes are aimed at redistributing aerodynamic load when the flap rotates, momentarily increasing load on the rear axle during transitions. This concept contrasts with the solution previously seen on Aston Martin, which used straighter and inverted pylons. The key challenge remains finding the optimal balance, as the straight-line configuration—used repeatedly during a race weekend when both front and rear wings open—is activated hundreds of times.
In addition, an aerodynamic element positioned at the centre of the flap can be observed, likely designed to stabilise airflow and maintain consistent load during rotation. According to internal reports, the programme was completed without any issues, and the system operated as expected throughout the session.
As a result, there is currently no reason to suggest that the upgraded wing will not be introduced in Miami on both SF-26 cars. Feedback from both drivers has also been positive, with no complaints regarding drivability or aerodynamic imbalance.
The entire upgrade package has already been prepared for shipment to the American round, including not only the revised rear wing but also a new front wing specification, a second version of the floor, and revised halo-mounted aerodynamic flicks, now returning in a carbon-fibre laminate construction.
Today, both Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton are scheduled to work in the simulator at Maranello to cross-check data gathered during the Monza filming day and further refine correlation ahead of the upcoming Formula 1 weekend in Miami.
Leave a Reply