Ferrari disagree with F1 rivals over lifting FIA testing ban during one-month season break

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Ferrari are calling for the FIA to lift the testing ban on current cars during the break in the 2026 season in April.

The Maranello outfit have taken a huge step forward under the new ruleset, with the SF-26 currently being the second-fastest car on the grid behind Mercedes. Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc have a competitive package, but not enough to challenge for race wins.

Ferrari’s smaller turbo gives them a major advantage, but energy management is a clear weakness. Furthermore, Ferrari are losing time in the corners because Mercedes’ W17 can generate more traction than the SF-26, hence the need to develop the car.

The Japanese Grand Prix could be a decent weekend for the Prancing Horse, as it is one of the better tracks for energy management, and another strong race start could be just what they need to win. But after Suzuka, there is a lengthy gap in the calendar.

Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have been cancelled in 2026 amid the ongoing situation in the Middle East. With the next race not being until the Miami GP in May, Ferrari want to take advantage of the break to improve the SF-26.

Ferrari want the FIA to lift F1’s private testing ban during April break

What F1 teams can bring to their cars during a season is limited by the cost cap. However, with two fewer races in 2026, they now have more spare money available, which is brilliant news for teams like Aston Martin.

There is also the Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities, or ADUO, which allows for more upgrades if a manufacturer falls too far behind. But teams are not permitted to run their current spec during a season.

Should F1 broadcast another private test during the one-month break in 2026?

If yes, which track should they test at?

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The rule was first introduced in 2009, prohibiting teams from testing their current cars for fear of someone pulling away from the field. They can use a two-year-old spec through TPC tests, but with the new regulations, the benefits of these are limited.

That is why, according to a report from Soymotor, Ferrari want the ban lifted. They are calling for the FIA to ‘authorise’ private testing during April ‘without any problems’, as their budget would now allow them to do so with Bahrain and Saudi Arabia cancelled.

It is clear that ‘not all teams are interested’ in such a proposal, as they would prefer to spend their money elsewhere. But for a team like Ferrari, further testing and development of the SF-26 could be just what gives them the edge over Mercedes.

READ MORE: All you need to know about Scuderia Ferrari from team principal to factory

Can Ferrari win the Japanese Grand Prix?

Ferrari have some work to do to catch Mercedes and challenge them for the championship in 2026. The Japanese GP is an opportunity for the team to make strong progress.

Suzuka is a tough place to overtake, thus making energy management a key factor in winning the race. Ferrari’s race starts could give them the edge, but the issue is then whether they can preserve the battery and keep Mercedes behind.

Max Verstappen’s 2025 win is the blueprint for Ferrari to win in Japan, with how he kept the field behind him after taking a stunning pole position. It could be the site of Lewis Hamilton’s maiden win for the team.