Ferrari drivers identify performance gaps in 2026 season

Ferrari drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc have identified key areas for improvement as the team seeks to regain competitiveness in the 2026 Formula 1 season.

Lewis Hamilton believes the team can find significant performance gains through better management of Pirelli tires. He noted that tire behavior is a complex science that could provide a competitive edge without requiring fundamental car changes. This is particularly relevant given the higher pressures required by Pirelli to ensure safety with 2026 aerodynamic regulations.

Charles Leclerc, meanwhile, highlighted a lack of raw performance compared to rivals like Mercedes and Red Bull. While he noted that Ferrari often starts race weekends with a well-balanced car, he observed that the team tends to lose ground during qualifying when competitors increase engine power. Leclerc also pointed to technical trade-offs, such as a smaller turbo design intended to improve low-speed drivability at the Italian GP, which has impacted top speed on straights.