Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur has confirmed that the upgrades tested during the Monza filming day will also feature on the SF-26 at the Miami Grand Prix. Ferrari is one of the most closely watched teams heading into the Florida weekend, with the SF-26 set to hit the track featuring several new developments already tested last week, including an updated version of the “macarena” rear wing first introduced in China. With very limited track time available due to the sprint format, Ferrari will need to find the right setup immediately, making simulator-to-track correlation crucial in order to avoid spending the weekend struggling with a car that is not fully dialled in.
Speaking ahead of the Miami Grand Prix weekend, Vasseur confirmed that the SF-26 will arrive in Florida with aerodynamic upgrades, while also acknowledging that several rival teams are expected to introduce new parts as well. The Ferrari team principal also revealed that the squad spent the long break working extensively in Maranello to analyse data gathered during the opening rounds of the season in preparation for Miami.
Vasseur then underlined the importance of maximising the single practice session available under the sprint format, with Ferrari aiming to stay focused, work efficiently and extract the best possible result from the weekend: “We’re very happy to finally be back on track after such a long break, which is something quite unusual in the middle of the season.
“Over the past few weeks, we’ve worked hard in Maranello to analyse the data collected during the opening races and prepare for this event in the best possible way. We will bring some aerodynamic upgrades, but we know our rivals will do the same. That’s why it will be important to stay focused, approach the weekend with humility and maximise the work immediately in the single free practice session available. We’ll focus on our own weekend and try to bring home the best result possible.”
Hamilton tipped to unleash Ferrari surge amid predicted Miami breakthrough
Martin Brundle believes Hamilton could become a genuine contender for victories again as Ferrari continues to close the gap to the front ahead of the Miami Grand Prix. The former
F1 driver suggested Hamilton appears far more comfortable with the new-generation cars compared to the difficult ground-effect era of recent seasons, pointing to both his driving style and overall attitude as signs of renewed confidence inside the Ferrari camp.
Brundle also
expects Ferrari to make another important step forward in Miami, although he stressed that Hamilton will still need to consistently outperform teammate Charles Leclerc if he wants to place himself firmly into the title conversation. Despite the challenge ahead, Brundle remains convinced that Hamilton still has what it takes to capitalise on any opportunity for victory should Ferrari provide him with a competitive enough package.