ROME (EFE).– The Ferrari team presented this Friday at the Fiorano circuit, in Modena, its new single-seater SF-26, with which Lewis Hamilton, seven-time world champion, and Charles Leclerc will seek to return the Italian team to prominence in Formula 1, in a season marked by the entry into force of a new technical and sporting regulations.
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The SF-26 becomes Ferrari’s
72nd single-seater in the history of the championship and is the
second project developed under the direction of the French engineer
Loïc Serra, incorporated from Mercedes, Hamilton’s former team.
“We dedicated a lot of time to the conception phase to adapt as best as possible to the new regulatory and technical framework. In addition, it was essential that the car’s architecture offered enough room for evolution throughout the season,” explained Serra during the presentation.
Return to Shine and Visible Changes
In terms of aesthetics, the SF-26 stands out for the
return to glossy paint after seven seasons with a matte finish. The traditional red now looks
more intense, again accompanied by details in
white in the cockpit area and
blue on the rear wing.
The new 2026 regulations introduce profound modifications that affect the overall design of the single-seater, which will be
lighter than its predecessors.
New Aerodynamic Philosophy and Power Unit
According to Ferrari, the SF-26 chassis
abandons the ground effect concept, opting for a different aerodynamic approach, with cleaner lines and a philosophy focused on
weight reduction and increased efficiency, in line with the objectives set by Formula 1.
The
power unit was also subject to adjustments. Ferrari detailed that it is a
new hybrid generation, in which the electrical system has an even more relevant role, which forced a closer integration between the chassis and the engine.
The Pilots’ Vision
For
Charles Leclerc, who is facing his
eighth season with the Italian team, the 2026 rules demand a more exhaustive preparation than ever.
“There are many new systems to understand and optimize. That’s why we’ve been very involved from the early stages of development. We know from experience how complex a regulatory change can be, but we will get to the track with the best possible preparation,” assured the Monegasque.
Leclerc also emphasized that
energy management and the behavior of the power unit will be determining factors, forcing the drivers to adapt quickly.
For his part,
Lewis Hamilton called the change the
biggest regulatory challenge he has faced in his career.
“Participating from the start in the development of such a different car has been fascinating. The driver will have a key role in energy management, understanding the new systems, and developing the single-seater throughout the year,” indicated the Briton.
A New Beginning for Ferrari
The team principal,
Frédéric Vasseur, defined the SF-26 as “the result of a huge collective effort” and the starting point of a completely new stage.
“It’s the beginning of an adventure under different rules, which inevitably bring uncertainties, but also great opportunities,” he pointed out.
Hamilton and Leclerc had a
first contact with the SF-26 at Fiorano, although in complicated conditions due to the rain. According to the regulations, the initial filming was limited.
Ferrari will continue its testing program between
January 26 and 30 in Barcelona, while the
official pre-season tests will be held in
Bahrain from the 11th to the 13th and from the 18th to the 20th of February. The championship will start the
weekend of March 6 to 8, with the
Australian Grand Prix.
