Today in Fiorano, a festive atmosphere reigned as Ferrari finally unveiled its new SF-26 car. With this machine, the team hopes to break a long streak of setbacks and once again fight for the Formula 1 title. After last year’s disappointing season, when even the high-profile signing of Lewis Hamilton failed to bring long-awaited glory, the Italians opted for radical changes. This time, both drivers—Hamilton and Charles Leclerc—attended the presentation, along with team principal Frédéric Vasseur. Hundreds of fans gathered by the track despite the early hour, eager to witness the legendary team start a new chapter in its history.
The SF-26 immediately drew attention not just for its engineering, but also its refreshing new look. Ferrari abandoned matte paint, returning to the iconic glossy Rosso Scuderia red, now brighter and more vibrant than ever. White accents on the engine cover and around the cockpit give the car a bold appearance, harking back to the 1970s era when Niki Lauda and Clay Regazzoni dazzled behind the wheel. This design is more than a tribute to the past—it’s meant to inspire the team and fans toward new victories.
A new era
2026 promises to be a turning point for all of Formula 1, with a major overhaul of the technical regulations on the horizon—and Ferrari finally sees an opportunity to surge ahead. The management makes no secret of the immense pressure, as the team last claimed a championship title back in 2007. Fans are tired of waiting, while rivals remain vigilant. Vasseur emphasized that the SF-26 is not just another car, but a symbol of a new era for the Scuderia. According to him, the team has come together like never before to seize this unique chance offered by the rule changes.
Immediately after the launch, the car hit the track for its first shakedown. Hamilton and Leclerc took turns testing the new machine, with fans watching their every move. This was more than just a test—it was a moment of truth for the entire team. Next up: trials in Barcelona, where Ferrari will need to determine how well the engineers have done their job and what still needs improvement before the season begins.
Betting on experience
Lewis Hamilton, entering his second year with Ferrari, admits that the biggest challenge of his career lies ahead. He noted that he’s never seen such sweeping regulation changes before, and that now, more than ever, it’s crucial to adapt as quickly as possible to the new conditions. For the Briton, this is a chance to prove that his move to the Scuderia was not a mistake, but a strategic decision.
Charles Leclerc, already the face of Ferrari for some time, is just as determined. He pointed out that during his years with the team, he’s seen more than one rule change, but the current challenge is different. Both drivers are highly motivated: they want not only to win races, but also to restore Ferrari’s status as world champion.
Design with a legacy
The appearance of the SF-26 has its own story. Engineers and designers found inspiration not only in modern trends, but also in the glorious chapters of the past. The striking, gleaming red paint, white accents, and aggressive body lines create an image of a car built to not only be fast, but also command respect from rivals. Ferrari is open about their intentions: they wanted to create a car instantly recognizable at first glance, becoming a symbol of a new era.
They also drew inspiration from recent experiments: last year’s Monza Grand Prix served as a kind of rehearsal for the new style. Back then, the team was already hinting at a return to the classics, and now these ideas have been fully realized. This approach highlights Ferrari’s willingness to experiment, while always staying true to its roots.
Expectations and ambitions
Ferrari faces an incredibly tough season ahead, where every detail could prove crucial. The team understands that competition will be fierce, and mistakes are unacceptable. But right now, Scuderia has a chance to change the course of history. The SF-26 is more than just a racing car—it’s a symbol of hope for millions of fans around the world. Full tests will begin in Barcelona, and it’s there that it will become clear how ready Ferrari is to fight for the title.
RUSSPAIN reminds you that Ferrari is one of the oldest and most decorated teams in Formula 1 history. The team was founded in 1929 by Enzo Ferrari and has since secured a record number of victories and championship titles. The prancing horse is the brand’s iconic symbol, and the red color has become a hallmark of the Italian marque. Motorsport legends have raced for Ferrari, and the team itself has always been synonymous with passion, innovation, and fighting until the very last lap.
In case you missed it, our previous article covered how Audi officially unveiled its Formula 1 car for the 2026 season for the very first time. The German team is betting on a technological revolution and has already declared its ambitions to compete for victory. Find out more about their plans and preparations for their debut in our article Audi officially unveils its first Formula 1 car for the 2026 season.
