Formula One entered a brave new era on Friday as Ferrari pulled the silk off the SF-26, the car tasked with returning the Scuderia to the summit of the sport. At the heart of the launch was seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who, at 41, described the upcoming season as the most significant technical reset of his illustrious career.
The 2026 regulations represent a total overhaul of the sport's DNA, focusing on a 50-50 power split between internal combustion and electrical energy, alongside the introduction of active aerodynamics and fully sustainable fuels.
Technical Director Loic Serra emphasized that the SF-26’s architecture was designed with "maximum flexibility" to allow for a development rate that Team Principal Fred Vasseur expects to be "furious" throughout the 24-race season.
It’s the biggest regulation shift I think our sport has seen, at least in my time. Everyone starts from scratch, so it really levels the playing fieldLewis Hamilton
While the car looks the part, a technical storm is already brewing behind the scenes. Ferrari, alongside Audi and Honda, has raised formal concerns with the FIA regarding the engine designs of Mercedes and Red Bull.
The dispute: Allegations that rivals are exploiting thermal expansion of components to increase compression ratios.
The stakes: Engineering estimates suggest this loophole could provide an advantage of up to 0.3 seconds per lap.
The status: Meetings on Thursday failed to reach an agreement, meaning the row is set to overshadow the season-opener in Melbourne.
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Last Drivers' Title | 2007 (Kimi Raikkonen) |
| Last Constructors' Title | 2008 |
| 2025 Finish | 4th in Constructors' Standings |
| Hamilton 2025 Record | 0 Podiums (Career Low) |
| 2026 Power Split | 50% Combustion / 50% Electrical |
| Season Length | 24 Races (Starting March 8) |
Hamilton enters 2026 following a "woeful" debut year with Ferrari in 2025, where he failed to secure a single podium. The technical reset offers a fresh start, but it comes with internal changes: his race engineer, Riccardo Adami, is moving into a new role within the team. After a spiky relationship on the radio last term, Hamilton will be looking for a smoother rapport with his new, yet-to-be-named lead engineer to chase that elusive eighth world title.