David Croft says ‘clever technical people’ expect Ferrari to ‘struggle’ with 2026 F1 car

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Ferrari’s familiar weakness in the F1 development race may resurface in 2026, based on comments from Sky Sports commentator David Croft.

Last year, Ferrari won the China Sprint with Lewis Hamilton, but didn’t come close to any further victories. Back in 2022, Charles Leclerc looked set to fight Max Verstappen for the title after winning two of the first three races, but he eventually finished 146 points behind.

The Scuderia have made a broadly positive start to 2026 with three podiums in three races. They have been the biggest threat to Mercedes so far, but history suggests McLaren and even Red Bull could surpass them with superior upgrade packages.

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Ferrari may be ‘limited’ with 2026 F1 car development

Speaking on the F1 Show, David Croft said Ferrari’s design choices at the rear of the car may limit their room for improvement. Perhaps they prioritised immediate performance over long-term potential.

Ferrari impressed the paddock in pre-season testing with an innovative exhaust winglet. They have also trialled a ‘Macarena’ rear wing to reduce drag.

Mercedes’ traditional rivals are plotting major upgrades for the Miami GP following the extended break in the season. McLaren made clear that they were a threat with Oscar Piastri’s second-place finish in Japan.

• READ MORE: Ferrari are now working to finalise a new Macarena rear wing to solve more than its biggest issue

Croft said: “Ferrari, I’ve heard tell that the rear of their car limits them a little bit in terms of development and they might struggle a touch with that. [That’s come] from some clever technical people.

“Red Bull have a long way to go to catch up with those three teams and are being pursued by Alpine, who have started the season really well.”

The F1 rule change that could transform Ferrari’s season

Ferrari’s drivers will test at Monza later this month, utilising one of the nominal ‘filming days’ available to them under the regulations. The cars will be equipped with their Miami aero package.

Pirelli have also arranged a wet-tyre test at Ferrari’s Fiorano circuit this week, though it’s unclear if both Hamilton and Leclerc will take part.

Some believe Ferrari’s 2026 car is better than the Mercedes through the corners, with the considerable gap down to engine performance instead.

It’s significant, then, that Ferrari will have access to ADUO – Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities. The new catch-up mechanism for engine manufacturers could change the competitive landscape in 2026.