Ferrari unveiled its 2026 Formula 1 challenger, the SF-26, and conducted a limited shakedown at the Fiorano test track on Friday, with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc taking initial laps. The demonstration event allowed 15 kilometers of running, focusing on reliability and basic systems checks amid new regulations featuring active aerodynamics. Team principal Fred Vasseur emphasized the priority of getting the car on track without issues, setting the stage for further testing in Barcelona next week.
Ferrari marked the start of its 2026 Formula 1 preparations by revealing the SF-26 at its Maranello headquarters and immediately proceeding to a shakedown at the adjacent Fiorano circuit. The unveiling occurred via a short video at 11:30 a.m. CET, followed by track activity under demonstration event rules, limiting the team to 15 kilometers—equivalent to five laps of the 2.997-kilometer track.
Lewis Hamilton handled the installation lap, waving to gathered tifosi while on full-wet Pirelli demonstration tires. He completed three laps in total, activating the new-for-2026 active aerodynamics by opening the front and rear wing flaps for the first public demonstration of the technology. Charles Leclerc then took over for the remaining two laps, providing both drivers an initial feel for the car's cockpit, seating position, and basic handling in wet conditions.
No major insights into performance were possible due to the slow pace and weather, but the session confirmed system reliability. 'The most important is to be able to do mileage and it's why we are quite happy today because we didn't have any issue,' Vasseur said post-shakedown. He noted the team's strategy of delaying the demo to maximize development time, with upgrades planned for Barcelona testing from January 26-30, the first collective run under revamped chassis, engine, and active aero rules emphasizing electric energy.
Chassis technical director Loic Serra highlighted the adaptive development: 'We dedicated significant time to the concept phase to capture as much as possible of the new regulatory and technical context.' The SF-26 features a livery with more white alongside traditional red, a return to gloss paint, pushrod suspension at both ends—first since 2011—and a forward driver position.
This follows a disappointing 2025 season where Ferrari finished fourth in constructors, with Hamilton podium-less for the first time and Leclerc fifth in drivers. Hamilton expressed excitement: 'I can't really find words to express my excitement... it's such a privilege and an honor.' The shakedown builds anticipation for a rebound in the new era.
