Ferrari has been awarded two upgrade tokens through Formula 1’s Additional Upgrades and Opportunities (ADUO) system to modify the power unit in its SF-26. The team has assembled the two updated engines for Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, but must still decide whether to introduce them at next week’s Italian Grand Prix.
The final decision is expected at the end of this week, when Ferrari approves the parts being sent to Monza. Although the timing may appear unusual, it reflects the complexities created by the current Formula 1 regulations.
Ferrari’s upgraded engine faces final testing
Formula 1’s mandatory summer shutdown has not worked in Ferrari’s favour. The closure of the Maranello factory extended the testing period for the new engine, designated 067/6. Before it can be used during a race weekend, the power unit must pass an endurance test by completing at least six grands prix on the test bench without reliability problems.
Ferrari’s Gestione Sportiva engine department reportedly has 21 cells equipped with advanced test benches. However, cost limits and the aim of maintaining a level playing field mean that only two or three dynamometers are used, with strict time restrictions further extending the process.
If a reliability issue emerges and a minor modification is required, the approval procedure must stop and the entire testing process must begin again. As a result, Ferrari is taking a cautious approach before giving the green light for the ADUO2 engine to be installed in the SF-26 cars that Hamilton and Leclerc will drive at Monza.
The Ferrari cars are also expected to run a special celebratory livery commemorating Michael Schumacher’s time with the Maranello team.
New Ferrari power unit targets Mercedes
The upgraded project is expected to remain a six-cylinder engine while delivering approximately 15 additional horsepower and a revised power curve. Ferrari hopes the changes will reduce its qualifying and race deficit to Mercedes and improve the hybrid system’s charging phase.
Ferrari has modified both the Garrett turbochargers and the combustion chamber to make better use of the new Shell fuel approved for Monza. The expected performance gain comes from the combined effect of the higher-calorie fuel and the more advanced combustion system.
Ferrari is not arriving at Monza as the outright favourite. The Temple of Speed’s characteristics do not appear to suit the SF-26 on paper, but the team hopes Hamilton and Leclerc can qualify close to Mercedes, which is expected to lead the field.
Mercedes home driver Kimi Antonelli will also face an engine penalty at his home race and is expected to start at least 20th.
Italian Grand Prix to test 2026 engine hierarchy
The Italian Grand Prix will be an important test of the Formula 1 engine order following the adjustments permitted under the Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities system. Monza will provide a particularly demanding benchmark because its layout makes electrical energy recovery difficult.
According to the FIA’s latest engine assessment, Red Bull remains the benchmark for internal combustion engine performance. Mercedes, Ferrari, Honda and Audi are all attempting to close the gap after receiving upgrade tokens for use during the 2026 and 2027 Formula 1 seasons.