Positive signals emerging from Ferrari’s private testing programme at Monza could represent an important step forward for Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc as the Scuderia continues its push to close the gap to the front of the Formula 1 field in 2026.
Ferrari have shown a clear improvement in competitiveness this season, with Charles Leclerc securing podium finishes in both Australia and Japan, while Lewis Hamilton achieved his first podium in red during the Chinese Grand Prix. These results have reinforced optimism within the team that the SF-26 project is moving in the right direction.
During the current F1 break in April, following the cancellation of races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, Ferrari engineers have reportedly intensified development work on the SF-26, focusing on aerodynamic efficiency and upgrade validation in preparation for the upcoming Miami Grand Prix.
Reports suggest that Ferrari are preparing to introduce a significant upgrade package in Miami, described internally as “at least half a new car”, as the team aims to reduce the performance gap to Mercedes and re-enter consistent race-winning contention.
Positive internal feedback after Monza upgrade test
On Wednesday, Scuderia Ferrari carried out a closed-door filming and testing session at Monza, where several key aerodynamic updates were evaluated under track conditions.
According to reports from Italian outlet Motorsport Italia, Ferrari tested an updated version of their well-known rear wing concept, often referred to internally as the “Macarena wing”, alongside a revised Halo-mounted aerodynamic flap. Additional modifications were also evaluated, although some of these updates were not visible externally and are expected to be fully revealed only during the Miami Grand Prix weekend.
Sources close to the team indicated that the atmosphere within the Ferrari garage during the Monza test was notably positive, with staff described as “moderately cheerful” following the initial feedback from the new components.
This reaction is being interpreted as a promising sign that the direction of development for the SF-26 is delivering measurable improvements, particularly in areas linked to high-speed stability and overall downforce efficiency.
For Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, both of whom are actively targeting race victories, such encouraging internal feedback suggests that Ferrari’s latest upgrades may be working as intended. If confirmed in race conditions, this could mark a turning point in their 2026 campaign.
The real benchmark, however, will come in Miami, where Ferrari will be closely evaluated against Mercedes, particularly the driver pairing of Kimi Antonelli and George Russell, who have set a strong early-season performance standard.
Ferrari development battle set to define 2026 season
The Maranello team is not alone in their development push, as both McLaren and Red Bull are also expected to introduce upgrades in Miami, underlining how tightly contested the 2026 Formula 1 season is becoming at the front of the grid.
Former Ferrari driver Jean Alesi recently stressed that the evolution of the SF-26 will be decisive over the coming months, especially in a championship where marginal gains are expected to determine the final outcome.
He explained that Ferrari currently appear stronger than most competitors but still sit slightly behind Mercedes in overall performance. He also highlighted the challenge posed by McLaren, who benefit from the same power unit supplier and have been highly competitive in recent seasons.
Jean Alesi stated that development will be extremely difficult due to the intensity of the competition, adding that Red Bull and Max Verstappen cannot be ignored in the title fight, reinforcing that “Max Verstappen is still Max Verstappen”, and remains a decisive factor in any championship battle.
As Ferrari continue refining the SF-26, the next phase of the season is expected to be crucial in determining whether Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc can convert improved pace into consistent race victories and a sustained challenge at the front of Formula 1.
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