F1 teams' Monza deployment patterns reveal key 2026 power unit strengths and weaknesses

Energy deployment is proving decisive at Monza, where 2026 cars are at their most energy-starved since the in-season rule changes. Mercedes still holds the benchmark power unit, but Ferrari's upgraded 'ADUO 2' shows intriguing patterns that could shake up Sunday's race.

Why it matters:

Monza is the ultimate test of power unit efficiency under the 2026 regulations. Deployment differences will shape not just this weekend, but development priorities for the rest of the season.

The Details:

• Mercedes vs Ferrari: Russell's FP2-topping time shows Mercedes ahead on the first three straights, Leclerc 0.466s adrift entering Ascari. Ferrari claws time back toward Parabolica — an interesting split that could make lap one exciting.
• Ferrari's upgrade: Haas teammates Bearman (with ADUO 2) and Ocon (without) offer a direct comparison, though Ocon's parts inconsistencies muddy the data.
• McLaren's struggles: Norris was almost four tenths off Russell. Technical director Neil Houldey: "From an energy perspective, we've still got a bit of work to do."
• Honda's deficit: Aston Martin-Honda's 'Spec 2' hasn't solved its power deficit. Alonso loses four tenths to Turn 1 alone and half a second from Ascari to Parabolica.

The big picture:

The gap to 2025 Monza laps is stark — 2.681 seconds slower, with speeds levelling off rather than dropping at straight ends. McLaren's shorter gear ratios hurt, but it won't use its one joker to change them.

What's next:

With Pirelli expecting an easy one-stop and minimal tyre degradation, energy deployment and harvesting strategies will be the critical differentiator on Sunday. Honda faces a likely fight with Cadillac and Williams to avoid the back of the grid.