Ferrari
Mercedes leads early 2026 F1 favorites after Barcelona test
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Mercedes emerged as the frontrunner in Formula 1's first 2026 shakedown test at Barcelona, completing the most laps with strong reliability under new regulations. Ferrari impressed as a close challenger with the fastest overall time, while Red Bull and McLaren showed promise amid minor setbacks. The test from January 26-30 highlighted a tighter grid ahead of the season.
Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari are intensifying preparations after a strong first winter test. The team is remapping and reconfiguring elements ahead of the second winter test in Bahrain. This follows Hamilton's challenging debut season with the Scuderia in 2025.
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Ferrari's behind-closed-doors shakedown testing in Barcelona has shown positive early signs for the team. The session encountered only a few minor issues, indicating a solid start to preparations. Team principal Fred Vasseur emphasized the long road ahead to the season opener in Melbourne.
Ferrari revealed its 2026 Formula 1 car, the SF-26, during a launch event at its Maranello headquarters on Friday, featuring a new red and white livery with HP blue accents. Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc took turns driving the car for its maiden laps at the nearby Fiorano test track, marking the start of the team's preparations under new regulations. The event highlighted the unchanged driver lineup and ongoing leadership of team principal Fred Vasseur.
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Ferrari has appointed Carlo Santi as an interim race engineer for Lewis Hamilton ahead of the Barcelona tests, following the driver's request for a change from Riccardo Adami. The team is considering external options, including a potential hire from McLaren, for the long-term role in 2026. Martin Brundle believes the swap should have occurred earlier to address underlying issues.