Ferrari unveils its new SF-26 single-seater for the 2026 season
The Ferrari team has unveiled its new SF-26 single-seater, designed to compete in the 2026 Formula 1 season. The presentation took place at the Fiorano circuit in Modena, marking the beginning of a new era for the Italian team.
This new car will be driven by Lewis Hamilton, seven-time world champion, and Charles Leclerc, who will seek to take Ferrari back to the top of the competition. The 2026 season is characterized by the implementation of new technical and sporting regulations.
The SF-26 represents the single-seater number 72 in Ferrari’s Formula 1 history and is the second project developed under the direction of French engineer Loïc Serra, who joined from Mercedes.
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.
Loïc Serra
Aesthetic and Technical Changes
The SF-26 stands out for its return to glossy paint, after seven seasons with a matte finish. The traditional Ferrari red now looks more intense, accompanied by white details in the cockpit area and blue on the rear wing.
The new 2026 regulations introduce significant modifications to the single-seater design, which will be lighter than its predecessors.
The SF-26 chassis abandons the ground effect concept, opting for a different aerodynamic design, with cleaner lines. The philosophy focuses on weight reduction and increased efficiency, in line with Formula 1’s objectives.
The power unit has also been redesigned. This is a new hybrid generation, where the electrical system plays a more important role, which has required a closer integration between the chassis and the engine.
Statements from the Drivers and Team Principal
Charles Leclerc, who is facing his eighth season with Ferrari, highlighted that the 2026 rules will require thorough preparation. Energy management and the behavior of the power unit will be crucial factors.
Lewis Hamilton described the change as the biggest regulatory challenge he has faced in his career. He emphasized the importance of the driver’s role in energy management and the development of the single-seater.
The team principal, Frédéric Vasseur, defined the SF-26 as the result of a huge collective effort and the starting point of a new stage.
Hamilton and Leclerc had a first contact with the SF-26 at Fiorano, although the weather conditions were complicated due to the rain. Ferrari will continue its testing program between January 26 and 30 in Barcelona.
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 on the weekend of the 6th to the 8th of March, with the Australian Grand Prix.
