Ferrari's Monza engine upgrade delivers gains but gap to Mercedes remains

Ferrari's second engine upgrade of 2026 delivered gains at Monza, but Fred Vasseur admits a "decent gap" to Mercedes remains. Leclerc's P2 in FP2, 0.120s behind Russell, showed progress, though straights still expose the deficit.

Why it matters:

Ferrari's development under the FIA's ADUO regulations is a key 2026 storyline. This second upgrade follows the first in Austria in late June. The gap is narrowing, but Friday's data suggests deployment and drag work remains before Ferrari can challenge the front.

The details:

• Straight-line deficit: Leclerc loses six tenths before clawing back a couple on the final straight.
• Corner strength: Ferrari gains under braking and through corners — the chassis works well though top-end power lags.
• Long-run promise: Leclerc's race sim averaged 0.03s per lap off Antonelli's, though on softer tires.
• Hamilton's view: The engine is "really nice to drive in the low speed" and improved, but deployment schedules differ from rivals.
• Red Bull wildcard: Verstappen sat out FP1 and struggled with balance. Wache admitted it's "a little bit like Zandvoort" with fixes planned before FP3.

What's next:

Overnight changes could shift the balance, though most expect Mercedes to retain the edge. McLaren looks off pace — Norris called the day "much trickier than the last few Fridays" and cited high-speed corner losses. Haas showed promise with the upgraded engine, but only Bearman has it. Aston Martin still struggles despite its Honda upgrade.