Scuderia Ferrari is adopting an “aggressive” strategy for the 2026 Formula 1 season, pushing the assembly of its new car to the absolute limit. With the team facing a major technical revolution, Maranello is betting on maximizing development time, even if it means finishing the car just hours before its official presentation.
According to a report by Autoracer, the Italian team finds itself at a crossroads between aggressive innovation and potential delays as it tackles the new 2026 regulations. These rules introduce a simultaneous overhaul of both aerodynamics and power units, all while operating under a strict cost cap.
A Race Against the Clock
The new challenger, internally code-named Project 678, is scheduled to be unveiled on January 23, 2026. However, Team Principal Fred Vasseur has admitted that the schedule is extremely tight. The final assembly of the car is set to be completed only on January 22,the day before the launch.
While this timeline might suggest a delay, Vasseur frames it as a calculated strategic choice. By delaying the “freeze” on technical drawings, Ferrari aims to use every available hour for development and wind tunnel testing.
“This is aggressive, for sure… but it is necessary to arrive with the best possible performance,” Vasseur noted.
Technical Gambles
The 2026 regulations represent a “clean slate” for the grid, and Ferrari is reportedly taking significant technical risks to capitalize on this.
- Engine Packaging: The new power unit is described as “revolutionary,” with a focus on extreme compactness to aid aerodynamics.
- Suspension Changes: Reports indicate a shift in suspension philosophy (likely moving to a push-rod configuration at the rear) to align with modern trends and the new chassis requirements.
The “Spec A” Strategy
Following the launch, Ferrari plans to debut a “Spec A” version of the car at the pre-season tests in Barcelona. This initial iteration will prioritize mileage and reliability validation over raw speed. The goal is to ensure the radical new power unit and mechanical systems are durable before unlocking full performance in later tests.
For drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, the success of Project 678 is critical. After promising but ultimately insufficient campaigns in 2017 and 2022, Ferrari is hoping this high-stakes gamble will finally close the gap to their rivals in the new era of Formula 1.
