Ferrari plans final SF-26 update for Austin; sidepods may debut in Mexico

Ferrari plans to bring its final SF-26 update of the season to Austin for Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, but the revised sidepods may arrive only at the last minute or make their debut a week later in Mexico.

The package evolves the floor and sidepod profile without overhauling the car’s aerodynamic concept. Technical expert Paolo Filisetti says Ferrari aims to alter the distribution of aerodynamic pressure and widen the SF-26’s operating window rather than simply add downforce; some solutions also look ahead to the 2027 car. Filisetti compares the approach with Mercedes’ recent update, which did not deliver the hoped-for results.

Filisetti describes the SF-26 as among the cars with the most downforce. That helps in slow corners but leaves it more vulnerable in fast, flowing sections. Ferrari wants to retain that strength while becoming more competitive in medium- and high-speed corners.

Filisetti says the SF-26 responded well to circuit-specific set-ups in Malaysia and Singapore, partly compensating for its engine-power deficit. An optimal balance can improve tyre management, but it cannot fully offset the lack of raw power on the straights.

The update was designed before the summer break, not as a Plan B after the second engine upgrade fell short of the level Ferrari’s technicians expected. Ferrari’s goal is at least one more win before the season ends. Its last came at the British Grand Prix, where Filisetti says problems for Kimi Antonelli contributed to the result; McLaren and later Red Bull have since had the upper hand.

Austin and Mexico pose very different tests for the chosen aerodynamic direction, with Mexico’s thinner air adding another challenge. If the sidepods are delayed, the Austin weekend will show whether the floor changes alone can meet Ferrari’s targets.