Ferrari and the 2026 F1 Winter Tests:
Review, Innovations, and Performance
As the 2026 Formula 1 season rapidly approaches, Scuderia Ferrari made a strong impression during winter testing with a series of technical innovations and an eye-catching on-track performance. After the Barcelona shakedowns and two weeks of testing at the Bahrain International Circuit, the tifosi have every reason to hope for a strong comeback from the Rossa!
Technical innovations of the Ferrari SF-26
Ferrari introduced several interesting elements during these winter tests:
- A revolutionary rear wing: the SF-26 tested a rear wing version capable of rotating 180° in low-drag mode (active aero), an ambitious solution designed to reduce drag and improve top speed on long straights.
- Specific aerodynamic devices: small winglets positioned behind the exhaust to manage hot gas flows and increase rear downforce, a key area under the 2026 regulations.
- Continuous aero and chassis development: Ferrari also tested multiple versions of its package, trying different front-end, diffuser and sidepod configurations to optimize overall balance.
These innovations come within the context of heavily revised regulations, featuring a new 50/50 energy split between the internal combustion engine and electric power, as well as the widespread introduction of active aerodynamics.
On-track performance: Ferrari leads the way
From a purely timing perspective, Ferrari stood out:
- Charles Leclerc set the fastest time of the entire pre-season, clocking a 1’31.992 lap at the Sakhir Circuit — the only driver to break the 1’32 barrier during testing.
- This performance placed him nearly one second ahead of his main rivals, including Lando Norris (McLaren) and Max Verstappen (Red Bull), highlighting the strong potential of the Ferrari package from the very first tests.
- Ferrari also completed long and varied programs, including substantial race simulations, demonstrating both pace and reliability.
Team principal Fred Vasseur confirmed that the main objective (collecting data, running the car and validating its systems) was achieved, while reminding that 2026 will above all be a season of continuous development.