The month of May is proving to be absolutely pivotal for Ferrari and for the future trajectory of the SF-26 project. New and significant information has emerged regarding the ADUO concessions that are expected to be officially clarified after the Miami Grand Prix, while the first early indications about the 2027 car are also beginning to take shape.
Ferrari is set to introduce its first major upgrade package of the 2026 Formula 1 season in Miami, following a 200-kilometre filming day carried out at Monza. During this session, the Scuderia tested several updated components on the SF-26, gathering crucial data ahead of their competitive debut. The ADUO concessions are now shedding further light on the development path, explaining why May could become a defining period for the Maranello-based team. At the same time, attention is already partially shifting toward the longer-term future, with new insights concerning the 2027 car.
Several clearer images have surfaced from the Monza filming day, showcasing the updated SF-26 in more detail. The modifications are visible, although a full technical evaluation will only be possible once the car takes to the track in Miami under race conditions. The package is being described as a “one-and-a-half” upgrade, since some elements were originally scheduled to debut at the now-cancelled Bahrain round. Among the changes are a revised front wing, a new floor, an evolution of the FTM winglet, additional flaps on the halo, and a reduction in overall weight. However, the most impactful development could be the so-called “Macarena” rear wing, which is finally expected to be used in its finalized specification. Further information now suggests that the importance of May cannot be overstated for Ferrari’s performance outlook.
Upgrades approved, ADUO at 4% and insights on the ‘679’ project
As reported by Italian journalist and F1 expert Rosario Giuliana on AutoRacer.it, the upgrade package tested at Monza has received full approval from the drivers. Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton have been working extensively on the simulator in recent days, cross-referencing data and helping the team prepare as effectively as possible for the Miami round. The earlier issues associated with the initial version of the “Macarena” concept appear to have been resolved, potentially delivering a top speed gain of up to 8–10 km/h on the Miami circuit. This improvement could represent Ferrari’s best opportunity to challenge Mercedes, or at least apply greater pressure on their rivals.
Meanwhile, the engineers led by Enrico Gualtieri are continuing to work relentlessly on a power unit featuring a completely new internal combustion engine architecture. This development is not expected to be introduced before July, but within the ADUO framework, Ferrari is confident of remaining within the 4% threshold. Achieving this would allow the team to benefit from two additional upgrade opportunities over the course of the season.
Attention must also be paid to 2027, as the future power unit will naturally be built around this new conceptual foundation. The latest information also indicates that the ‘679’ project, which represents next year’s car, will gain full priority in the wind tunnel starting from June. While the team now heads toward the fourth race of the season, many uncertainties remain. Diego Tondi’s department will focus on extracting maximum performance from the revised aerodynamic package, aiming to deliver a more competitive and efficient SF-26 on track.
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