Ferrari enters the 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza with a fresh power unit update and a major car configuration package, aiming to boost Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton on home ground.
The technical challenge at Monza centers on active aero management under 2026 rules. Drivers must shed drag on long straights before returning to downforce configurations for the circuit’s iconic chicanes, with energy recovery and deployment playing decisive roles.
The Impact of 2026 Active Aero at Monza
Unlike previous regulation eras where teams routinely stripped down wing levels specifically for Italy, active aerodynamics keep downforce configurations much more stable throughout the lap. Speaking to media at Monza on Thursday, Leclerc noted that simulator runs prepared him for a vastly different feeling behind the wheel.
“The change will be big. I mean, it will be very big. He drew parallels to high-speed rounds at Spa and Silverstone, where early skepticism gave way to strong competitive pace once on track.”
So I think that will be probably the biggest difference on a track like this. Other than the obvious one, which is the power unit.”
Qualifying Strategy and Slipstream Priorities
Grid position and traffic management will dictate Saturday’s qualifying session, where slipstreams and precise pit-exit timing remain vital. Ferrari utilizes a structured driver priority system for track position.
This weekend Lewis will have the priority. So I guess we’ll go for the slipstream.”
Managing the complex 2026 power unit configurations is equally essential for single-lap speed, according to the Monegasque driver. Small parameter adjustments can cost multiple tenths of a second if settings are less than optimal.
And by doing that we end up winning Silverstone and having a great weekend in Spa. That’s what we’ll target here.”
Ferrari targets a strong showing across all 53 laps on Sunday as the team chases victory in front of the Tifosi.
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