Ferrari try to find marginal gains
There is obviously no guarantee that Ferrari can complete an additional six days of running with the same engine from Barcelona.
Even a reliable engine could experience hiccups after such extensive track time. Should the Scuderia experience a significant problem, they would still need to use another engine – regardless of their audacious approach.
Still, there are many reasons why Ferrari have reason to pursue this approach. From a financial perspective, using just one power unit could help cut costs – at a time when the budget cap restricts spending.
This means that a problem-free test in Bahrain (on the engine side) could save vital funds that can be allocated to development on upgrades and new components. Whilst this target is ambitious, it speaks to Ferrari’s conviction in their development if they believe it is achievable.
Something that could benefit Ferrari is potentially running a lower engine mode to help preserve the SF-26’s power unit. As a result, extending this engine’s lifespan is something they can control over the coming days.
Team principal Fred Vasseur’s engine department have also employed some unorthodox solutions specifically to improve reliability.
Though initially disputed, Ferrari’s unique choice to use steel alloy for their 2026 engine cylinders could be transformative when all is said and done.
The question mark
Of course, it would be premature for the team to start dreaming of six days of running without any complications. Whether there are issues with the power unit, hydraulics, cooling, geometry or anything else, Ferrari will be prepared.
There is also the question mark of teams utilising the 2026 fuels for the first time. Some teams opted against using the sustainable fuels mandated in the regulations for this season in the Barcelona shakedown.
Reliability concerns are what pushed certain teams into taking this decision, preferring to play it safe in their first meaningful sessions of the year. However, starting from tomorrow, every team will use sustainable, carbon-neutral fuels.
Fuel suppliers have worked extensively with their respective client teams to develop this new energy source. These sustainable fuels are widely regarded as one of the main reliability risks for the 2026 season.
In this sense, even those more confident about the durability of their packages could encounter difficulties. Ferrari, therefore, will work to validate their decision to try and use one engine throughout pre-season.
Main photo: Scuderia Ferrari Media Gallery
