Is Ferrari’s Focus Already on the 2026 F1 Season?
Ferrari’s performance in the 2025 Formula 1 world championship has left much to be desired, raising questions about whether the team should already shift its focus to the 2026 season. The Spanish Grand Prix was a pivotal moment for Ferrari, with hopes of a significant leap forward, but the anticipated progress did not materialize, prompting Lewis Hamilton to suggest looking ahead.
Despite securing a second position in the constructors’ standings after the Spanish Grand Prix, Ferrari’s performance fell short of expectations. The team’s rivalry with McLaren has intensified once again, but a deeper analysis reveals that Ferrari has little reason to celebrate.
The introduction of new front wing flexibility checks by the FIA was expected to narrow the gap between Ferrari and its competitors, particularly McLaren. However, McLaren’s upgrades at Imola, including a stiffer wing, helped them maintain a considerable advantage over Ferrari. Charles Leclerc’s strategic sacrifice in qualifying did not yield the desired results, highlighting the team’s ongoing challenges.
As Ferrari prepares to introduce new upgrades ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, including a new floor and rear suspension, concerns loom over the effectiveness of these improvements. The SF-25 has been labeled a ‘bad car’ within the team, with doubts persisting about its development potential and competitiveness.
The struggles faced by Ferrari have raised doubts about the viability of investing further resources in the current season’s car. With the 2026 technical rules on the horizon, the team must weigh the benefits of continuing to enhance the SF-25 against prioritizing the development of next year’s car. While team boss Frederic Vasseur remains optimistic, the challenges faced by Ferrari suggest a potential shift in focus towards future seasons.
The pressure is mounting on Ferrari to make crucial decisions regarding its strategic direction in the midst of a challenging season. As the competition heats up and the stakes continue to rise, Ferrari must navigate the complexities of balancing short-term performance with long-term success in the fast-paced world of Formula 1.