Leclerc and Hamilton Deeply Involved in Ferrari's 2026 Project

Charles Leclerc has confirmed that both he and Lewis Hamilton have been “heavily involved” in the development of Ferrari’s 2026 F1 car, the SF-26, starting from the project's early stages. The team made a strategic gamble last season by halting development of the 2025 car in April to focus entirely on the new power unit regulations.

Why it matters:

The 2026 regulations represent the most significant technical overhaul in the sport's history, featuring a 50/50 split between electrical and internal combustion power. For Ferrari, which slumped to fourth in the Constructors' Championship last year without a single victory, getting this transition right is critical to reclaiming its status as a top-tier team.

The details:

• Driver Integration: Leclerc emphasized that the new regulations demand a higher level of preparation, requiring drivers to understand and optimize numerous new systems. Both drivers have been shaping the car's direction from the beginning.
• Technical Shift: The shift to equal electrical and combustion power changes the driving dynamic significantly. Leclerc noted that energy management and the power unit will be the most critical aspects, requiring drivers to rely initially on instinct before moving to data-driven optimization.
• Strategic Pivot: Ferrari's decision to stop 2025 development early highlights the magnitude of these changes. The team is banking on this early focus to prevent a repeat of the 2024 season's struggles.

Looking ahead:

Leclerc expressed high motivation for the challenge, acknowledging the complexity based on past regulatory changes. He also highlighted the importance of fan support as Ferrari pushes to return to the front of the grid. The collaboration between Leclerc and Hamilton in the simulator and development phase will be pivotal in ensuring the SF-26 is competitive immediately upon its debut.