Ferrari unveiled its latest Formula 1 livery on Friday, setting the stage for the 2026 season and the dawn of new regulations. The design stays true to the team's iconic red-and-white palette, yet introduces bold highlights that give the car a refreshed identity. The updated look is paired with technical changes mandated by the upcoming rules overhaul, making the SF-26 both a visual and mechanical statement of Ferrari's next era.
The standout update on the SF-26 is its striking new livery, which Ferrari says draws inspiration from the special edition car showcased at the 2025 Monza Grand Prix. That design itself paid homage to the legendary Ferrari 312T, the machine with which Niki Lauda clinched the first of his three world titles back in 1975. In a notable shift, Ferrari is also returning to a glossy paint finish-mirroring Red Bull-after seven consecutive seasons of running a matte look.
Looking ahead, the sweeping 2026 regulations will usher in a new era of Formula 1 machinery. Cars will be slightly smaller in size, powered by hybrid units delivering an almost equal balance between combustion and electric energy. They'll also incorporate active aerodynamic systems and operate on sustainable fuel blends, marking a significant step toward the sport's future.
Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc remain Ferrari's driver pairing for the upcoming season. The team endured a tough campaign last year, with Leclerc carrying the bulk of the points while Hamilton faced the frustration of going a full season without a podium. Now, the arrival of the SF-26 offers both drivers a fresh start, as they prepare to get to grips with a radically different car once testing begins.
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After its unveiling, Lewis Hamilton took the new Ferrari SF-26 out for its first laps at Fiorano, marking the car's official track debut. The seven-time world champion was given the honor of conducting the initial shakedown, making Ferrari the sixth team to roll out its 2026 challenger on circuit.