Blog Details

 By Ndumiso Mabila

Ferrari unveiled its SF-26 at Fiorano on 22 January 2026, marking the team’s first Formula 1 challenger built to the sport’s new technical regulations. The car represents Ferrari’s bid to lead the next era, pairing a revised, more sustainable power unit concept with the combined experience of Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc.

Big Changes to the Rules

The 2026 regulations mark Formula 1’s biggest change since the sport introduced hybrid engines. The new power units place a more balanced emphasis on the turbocharged V6 engine and electric power, with the electric motor boosted to 350kW while still using a single MGU-H. Minimum car weight drops to 770kg, active aerodynamics are banned, and 18 inch wheels are now standard, shifting the focus towards efficiency rather than pure downforce.

The Car Body and Design

The SF-26 features a carbon-fibre honeycomb chassis with a built-in safety halo, designed to provide maximum protection while optimising airflow. Its lightweight body works with an eight speed gearbox and a hydraulic rear differential. The car uses Brembo carbon disc brakes with electronic rear control, giving it strong and precise stopping power. Front and rear push rod suspension ensures accurate handling, all while keeping within the 770kg minimum weight requirement.

The 067/6 Engine

Ferrari's 067/6 V6 engine uses a single turbocharger , 80mm bore, 53mm stroke, four valves per cylinder, and 350 bar direct fuel injection. Fuel energy flow is limited to 3,000 MJ/h. The hybrid system centres on a single electric motor giving 350kW at 60,000 rpm, with 4MJ battery power available at 1,000 volts smoothly mixing petrol and electric power. 

SF-26 Technical Details

Part  and Details 

Chasis _ Carbon fibre w/ halo; 770kg

Gearbox _ 8-speed + reverse

Brakes _ Brembo carbon discs (front/rear)

Suspension_ Push rod front/rear

Engine _ 067/6 V6, 1.6L, single turbo

Electric Motor _ MGU-K: 350kW @ 60,000 rpm

Fuel Flow _ 3,000 MJ/h maximum

The Drivers and What to Expect

Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton completed test laps at Fiorano following Ferrari’s SF-26 launch, with Hamilton taking to the track in Ferrari colours. The SF-26 places Ferrari among the championship favourites, combining petrol and electric power to deliver flexible race strategies, sharp overtaking bursts, and sustained qualifying pace. After the Fiorano shakedown, the car now heads to Barcelona for pre season testing.Sources: Ferrari.com, FIA 2026 Technical Regulations, F1GrandPrix.motorionline.com