Ferrari's 2026 Formula 1 car has positively surprised the paddock during pre-season testing in Bahrain, with strong performances in starts and overall pace. Team principal Fred Vasseur highlighted the reduced concerns over the new regulations, while driver Lewis Hamilton expressed determination for his 20th season. The team's innovations and handling have raised hopes for the upcoming Australian Grand Prix.
Ferrari enters the 2026 Formula 1 season with renewed optimism following impressive pre-season testing in Bahrain. The Scuderia's SF-26 car demonstrated competitive pace, with Charles Leclerc posting a time of 1m31.992s on the C4 tyre, about 2.5 seconds off the previous year's benchmark. This performance has allayed initial doubts about the new regulations, which introduce active aerodynamics and a 50:50 power split between electrical and internal combustion energy.
Team principal Fred Vasseur noted the positive reception, stating to Motorsport Italy, “It’s in F1’s DNA to complain about everything, but I believe that, in general, everyone has been positively surprised.” He emphasized that the cars are only two or three seconds slower than 2025 times, attributing some gap to cooler testing conditions. Vasseur also praised Ferrari's innovative designs, including a rear wing that flips 180 degrees to reduce drag and a new FTM aero solution with a fin in front of the exhaust for better energy recovery. The team maintained close dialogue with the FIA to ensure compliance.
A standout feature was Ferrari's strong starts, powered by a smaller turbocharger that minimizes lag. During practice starts, Lewis Hamilton surged from fifth to first, passing four cars, while Leclerc and Ferrari-powered Haas drivers Esteban Ocon and Ollie Bearman also excelled. This advantage stems from the 2026 rules, where electrical power activates only after 31mph, relying initially on the internal combustion engine. Rivals like Mercedes' George Russell acknowledged the challenge, describing his starts as worse than ever.
Hamilton, in his second year with Ferrari after a winless 2025, shared his mindset on Instagram: “Twenty seasons as an F1 driver... still standing, still hungry, still focused on the dream. No holding back.” Experts like Sky Sports F1's Martin Brundle expect Ferrari to be a force, citing the team's winter innovations and Hamilton's happiness with the car.
Vasseur addressed the intense scrutiny at Ferrari, noting media rumors can unsettle young engineers, though he maintains a strong relationship with chairman John Elkann and CEO Benedetto Vigna for quick decision-making. As the season opens in Australia on March 8, Ferrari aims to capitalize on these early strengths.
