Ferrari now waiting on FIA approval for new engine that could halve their gap to Mercedes

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Ferrari are reportedly waiting on an approval from the FIA over a new engine that could halve their gap to Mercedes.

So far in the 2026 campaign, it has been clear that Mercedes have been the dominant force.

Having won four races on the bounce, Kimi Antonelli currently leads George Russell by 43 points at the top of the world championship standings. 

Despite the Silver Arrows’ early-season dominance, the help of ADUO, Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities, could allow their rivals to close the gap.

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Ferrari waiting on FIA approval for new engine that could challenge Mercedes

According to Motorsport Italia, Ferrari are expecting two power unit-related upgrades as they aim to chase down Mercedes in both championships.

It has been noted that Ferrari are currently awaiting ‘official confirmation’ from Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA, on which teams will be granted ADUO.

Currently, there is the belief that Ferrari are having to deal with having approximately 25 horsepower less than the Mercedes power unit.

It has been suggested that the first upgrade could halve the gap with Mercedes, with the second package aiming to completely close to the gap between themselves and the Silver Arrows.

Once approved, Ferrari could reportedly bring the first upgrade to the Austrian Grand Prix, which will take place at the end of June.

Meanwhile, the second upgrade could be implemented after the summer break, potentially at the Dutch Grand Prix.

The race in Zandvoort has been described as the perfect ‘preparatory race’ ahead of the Scuderia’s home Grand Prix in Monza.

The second upgrade is set to undergo two months of reliability testing before being introduced.

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Speaking this season, Ferrari star Charles Leclerc played down the potential impact of ADUO, claiming Mercedes will still be too strong.

As reported by Planet F1, Leclerc said: “I think it’s going to be very difficult [to catch Mercedes]. I think they have a very big advantage.

“I think it will definitely be a help to try and get closer. Whether it will be enough to close the gap, I don’t know. It also depends which level we get, if we get it at all, but surely if we get it, it will be a help to get closer.”