Ferrari Barcelona shakedown dates confirmed after SF-26 launch

The Italian outfit, which recently unveiled its 2026 challenger – the SF-26 – will take to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on the second day of a closed-door shakedown. Ferrari will continue its running on Wednesday before concluding its three-day programme on Thursday.

This update follows GPblog’s earlier report that Red Bull Racing, Racing Bulls, and Alpine will be on track on the opening day of the shakedown at the Montmelo circuit.

Team Principal Fred Vasseur has outlined Ferrari’s focus following the car launch, stressing that the team’s priority is now to better understand the SF-26 ahead of the season opener in Melbourne.

The Ferrari team endured a challenging 2025 season, failing to secure any race victory in any of the 24 races held. The team’s only success was during the Sprint race in China, where Lewis Hamilton claimed first place at the Shanghai circuit.

The British driver, on his part, has since acknowledged the huge challenge the team is now saddled with heading into the new regulations.

However, Hamilton expressed optimism about being involved with the development of the new car, which he hopes will help define a clear development direction geared towards recording impressive results.

Teammate Charles Leclerc echoed similar sentiments, describing the upcoming regulation changes as both complex and fascinating, noting that the challenge has already demanded a higher level of preparation from drivers.

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