Ferrari is stirring up a storm in the Formula 1 paddock, with revelations that their SF26 model is likely faster than they’ve revealed during testing. The car’s impressive weight and strategic fuel choices have raised eyebrows, hinting at a calculated sandbagging strategy that could reshape the upcoming season.

Weighing in at just 770 kg, the SF26 is already lighter than its competitors, including the Mercedes W7. This slight margin from the legal minimum weight limit gives Ferrari a significant edge in distributing ballast, crucial for optimizing performance on the track. But what’s more intriguing is what Ferrari chose to conceal during the recent Barcelona shakedown.

Despite having a sustainable fuel blend ready, Ferrari opted not to run it, raising questions about their true performance capabilities. While other teams relied on compliant fuels, Ferrari’s decision means that all their lap times were recorded using a blend that won’t be legal for the season. This gamble could prove risky if their fuel choice can’t match the competition’s performance.

Moreover, Ferrari’s technical director, Loix Sera, confirmed that the SF26 was designed to be deliberately underweight, allowing the team to fine-tune weight distribution for various circuits. This engineering choice, combined with a reduced wheelbase and aggressive packaging, positions Ferrari as a formidable contender for the 2026 season.

However, not everything is smooth sailing. The new regulations introduce complexities in energy management that could challenge Ferrari and their drivers. Notably, Charles Leclerc’s history with lift and coast driving raises concerns about his ability to adapt to these demands, especially during critical moments like qualifying.

As the competition heats up, Red Bull quietly made headlines with their debut of the DM01 engine, showcasing impressive reliability during the same testing period. With Mercedes topping the lap charts but Ferrari close behind, the stage is set for a thrilling season ahead.

The looming legal battle over compression ratios could further complicate matters for Ferrari, as rival teams challenge what they perceive as exploitation of the rules by Mercedes and Red Bull. If unresolved, this issue could spark formal protests even before the first race.

With the Bahrain testing just around the corner, all eyes will be on Ferrari to see if their strategic choices pay off. Will the SF26’s hidden speed and innovative engineering stand the test of the new regulations, or will their gamble backfire? The countdown to the season opener has begun, and the stakes have never been higher.