Short Description
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc shares valuable insights about the SF-26 after its shakedown. While pleased with the initial run, he emphasizes the importance of context.
Read Time
3 minutes 45 seconds
Main Article
On January 23, 2026, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc expressed his initial impressions of the team’s new SF-26 car following its shakedown at the Fiorano circuit. The Monegasque driver highlighted the absence of major issues during the debut test, although he cautioned that the performance assessment must be measured against the less-than-ideal weather conditions. “I’m definitely looking forward to this day every year,” Leclerc remarked. He noted the fog and damp track conditions made it challenging to gauge the true capabilities of the SF-26.
Leclerc’s comments resonate strongly in the ever-competitive world of Formula 1, where context is key. While the hope was to unveil a car that improved upon Ferrari’s fourth-place finish in the 2025 Constructors’ Championship, the initial outing served primarily to confirm that the foundational systems were functioning as intended. “There’s a lot of fog and a little bit of a wet track, which isn’t the best for testing,” Leclerc explained, emphasizing the need for further evaluations in upcoming private tests scheduled for Barcelona.
Interest was notably high at Fiorano, with the Tifosi—the passionate Ferrari fans—turning out in droves to witness the car’s inaugural laps. Leclerc’s sense of excitement during this occasion was palpable, as it reflects the significant effort and preparation that goes into such assessments. He articulated that the real indicators of performance will emerge as the season progresses and the team continues its development work.
While Ferrari aims to chart a new course towards improved performance in the 2026 season, Leclerc’s statements underscore the brand’s commitment to balancing both enthusiasm and analytical caution. Motorsport enthusiasts and financial analysts alike should keep a watchful eye on how these developments will shape Ferrari’s strategy moving forward.
Short Summary
In summary, Charles Leclerc’s candid reflections on the Ferrari SF-26’s shakedown at Fiorano highlight the importance of context in performance assessment. While the car’s launch was promising, optimal testing under favorable conditions remains crucial as Ferrari aims for a stronger showing in the upcoming season.
