Last Updated:
Ferrari are fast-tracking a major SF-26 upgrade for Miami, using an unexpected calendar break to close the gap to Mercedes and turn early promise into real pace.
Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton of Britain leaves the pit lane after a tire change during the Chinese Formula One Grand Prix (AP)
Another day, another bold move from Ferrari.
After experimenting with their now-infamous “macarena wing” in Shanghai, a tweak that didn’t quite land during FP1, Ferrari are already lining up their next big swing.
This time, it’s a major upgrade package for the SF-26, set to be evaluated during a filming day at Monza ahead of the Miami Grand Prix.
And the timing? Couldn’t be better.
Calendar Chaos Opens a Window
The unexpected cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix, amid geopolitical tensions, created a rare gap in the 2026 calendar.
For teams, that means one thing: time to regroup and develop.
Ferrari are wasting none of it. With a full month between Japan and Miami, engineers in Maranello have doubled down on development, accelerating upgrades that were already in the pipeline.
Chasing Mercedes
So far, Mercedes have set the pace in 2026, with their W17 holding a clear advantage, especially in straight-line speed– thanks to a powerful engine package. (We see you smirking, Toto)
Ferrari, however, aren’t far off.
The SF-26 has impressed in low and medium-speed corners, with strong aerodynamic efficiency and a chassis that both drivers trust. In Australia and China, they pushed Mercedes hard even if they ultimately came up short.
Vasseur’s Long Game
Team boss Fred Vasseur made it clear from the start: this season is about development, not just early results.
“It won’t be all about the classification in Australia… it will be about the capacity for quick development.”
Ferrari deliberately began 2026 with a more conservative base car. And now, with that foundation validated, they’re ready to get aggressive.
The upcoming upgrade package is expected to bring significant changes across multiple areas of the SF-26 — boosting downforce and improving overall drivability.
With a stable platform and confident drivers in Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, Ferrari believe the time is right to push.
March 17, 2026, 17:14 IST
Read More
