Ferrari is gearing up for a transformative 2026 Formula One season with the launch of its new car, the SF-26. This marks a significant step for the team, as both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc look to rebound after a challenging 2025 campaign.
Launch Details for the SF-26
Ferrari announced the unveiling of the SF-26 via social media. The official launch event is scheduled for January 23, 2026, at the team’s headquarters in Maranello, Italy.
Drivers and Historical Significance
The SF-26 has heightened importance for 41-year-old Lewis Hamilton. He aims to secure an eighth world championship title, which would place him ahead of Michael Schumacher in the record books. Both drivers currently share the record, each with seven championships.
2025 Season Recap
- Ferrari finished fourth in the constructors’ standings.
- The team did not achieve any race wins.
- Hamilton ended the season without a single podium finish, marking a first in his 19-year career.
- Leclerc reached the podium seven times but did not win any races.
Following a tough season, Ferrari is focusing on innovation. The 2026 season introduces new regulations, compelling teams to develop entirely new vehicle designs and power units.
New Regulations for 2026
- Cars will be lighter and narrower compared to previous models.
- Power source will shift to 50 percent electrical energy, up from 20 percent.
- All cars must operate on fully sustainable fuels.
A Fresh Start for Ferrari
The SF-25, driven by Hamilton and Leclerc last season, is vastly different from the upcoming SF-26. After an especially difficult year riddled with design flaws, Ferrari halted aerodynamic development for the SF-25 by April. The team directed its resources toward creating a competitive car for the future.
Leclerc expressed hope for the next season on his social media, acknowledging the challenges of 2025. He committed to putting everything into the 2026 season, stating, “Count on me to give absolutely everything for 2026 for us to have more wins and success on the track.”
Ferrari is looking to turn a corner this upcoming season, with the SF-26 symbolizing a fresh start. The hope is that it will help both drivers achieve the success they seek in the fiercely competitive world of Formula One.
