The highly anticipated front wing upgrade package for Ferrari completes its debut at the Spanish Grand Prix with the introduction of a prominent horizontal flap located on the outside of the endplate, an element not previously present on the SF-26.
The long fin at the front of the footplate is larger in size and features a more pronounced outward twist. Added to this intervention is a second, unprecedented micro-element positioned at the trailing edge of the footplate.
Despite its small dimensions, its task is to generate a vortex structure that works in synergy with the main deflector.
The new front wing has retained the sophisticated fins in the lower section that I managed to spot in Miami; then, unfortunately, my tumble down the stairs prevented me from turning the photo into a drawing.
To obtain precise feedback on the data correlation of this new front wing specification, Ferrari has planned a program of comparative back-to-back tests to be carried out during the free practice sessions starting tomorrow.
Charles tests Carbon Industries discs
Ferrari has officially confirmed the switch to Carbon Industries discs for Leclerc as well, thus replacing the traditional Brembos. The braking system remains branded by the Bergamo-based company, featuring custom-made calipers for Maranello.
Brembo is, in fact, the sole supplier in Formula 1 and equips all the teams with its calipers, with the exception of McLaren and Cadillac. These two teams rely on the sister company AP Racing, a brand also owned by Brembo, whose calipers were already fitted on the MCL39 last season.
The choice between different friction materials is now a common practice on track. Every driver needs to build a completely personal feeling with the braking system. It is not rare, therefore, to witness experiments that lead to a change of supplier during the season.
A recent example dates back to 2024, when Verstappen decided to test Brembo discs during the Bahrain tests, abandoning the Carbon Industries ones used until then, and eventually confirming the Italian discs from the very first race of the world championship.
An identical dynamic involved Lewis Hamilton this year: the British driver wanted to test the Carbon Industries discs (image above) right from the Bahrain tests, having established a feeling with them lasting almost ten years at Mercedes, eventually choosing to adopt them permanently on his SF-26 starting from the Suzuka Grand Prix.
Ferrari: the floor updates on the SF-26
Also of great importance is the evolution of the rear floor section located ahead of the rear wheels. The core aerodynamic concept remains unchanged, but it has been taken to the extreme with the introduction of an additional slot.
Within these apertures, several longitudinal strakes have been integrated, designed to precisely direct the airflow towards the underfloor of the car. Overall, this upgrade aims to optimize the management of the harmful turbulence generated by the rotation of the rear tyre (the so-called tyre squirt).
The cutout located on the diffuser sidewall (mouse-hole) has also undergone a modification. This opening is designed to increase the volume of clean airflow directed into the diffuser, a refinement by the Scuderia that significantly improves its overall aerodynamic efficiency.
