Early ‘leaks’ suggest Ferrari are ‘headed for a dead end’ with vital part of 2026 F1 car

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Ferrari realised early in the 2025 season that the forecast world championship bid was unrealistic, increasing the pressure for 2026. But there are some worrying noises coming out of Maranello already.

F1 teams have been working on their brand-new engines long-term and were allowed to start testing their 2026 designs in the wind tunnel from 1 January. Ferrari have introduced multiple major upgrades this year, but the focus has shifted to the new regulations since their rear-suspension change.

Next year could feasibly be Lewis Hamilton’s last chance to win a world championship. His contract only runs for a guaranteed two years, and he will be approaching his 42nd birthday by the end of the season.

Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc’s deal includes an exit clause that becomes active next year. If the team don’t nail their new concept, he could give serious consideration to leaving for the first time, further raising the stakes.

Ferrari’s ‘revolving door’ could have ramifications for 2026 engine

There has previously been some optimism about Ferrari’s engine. With Audi and Red Bull Powertrains both making their debuts as suppliers, their experience could be an advantage.

The consensus in the paddock was that Ferrari and Mercedes would have the best power units next year. But the instability at Maranello could affect their competitiveness.

According to Motorsport Italy, Enrico Gualtieri’s engine department is ‘in turmoil’ amid a ‘revolving door’ of personnel changes. Wolf Zimmerman, who has previously taken the lead on the 2026 power unit, has been poached by Audi, along with deputy Lars Schmidt.

Ferrari management have been pondering how much of an impact their exits would have ‘for months’. They have recruited from Alpine, who have scrapped their own engine operation, and Mercedes in an attempt to fill the gap.

Thus, there’s no sense of ‘panic’ among the senior leadership. But there are ‘numerous leaks’ suggesting that Ferrari could be ‘headed for a dead end’ with their power unit design.

How exactly are F1 engines changing for 2026?

From next year, Formula 1 engines will run on sustainable fuels. Ferrari will be supplied by Shell, their long-term partners.

In addition, the MGU-H is no more, making space for a much larger and more powerful battery. This will make the car around 50% electric.

• READ MORE: Everything we know about F1’s 2026 regulation changes from engines to tyres

With DRS scrapped, drivers will be able to access extra energy when pursuing or defending from another car.

As for the handling, one driver says the 2026 F1 cars are completely different after carrying out simulator tests. That’s good news for Hamilton, who has largely looked uncomfortable in the ground-effect-era machinery, but it will matter little if his engine isn’t at a contending standard.