Ferrari target 0.2-second Monza gain with new engine upgrade
Ferrariâs Monza power-unit gamble
Ferrari are preparing to introduce their second engine upgrade through the FIAâs Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) system at the 2026 Italian Grand Prix, with the Scuderia expecting a significant performance step at Monza.
The FIA granted Ferrari two opportunities to develop their first power unit built to Formula 1âs 2026 regulations after its initial internal combustion engine (ICE) was assessed as at least 4% weaker than Red Bullâs. Mercedesâ ICE was also reported to be at least 2% behind Red Bullâs benchmark.
Although the ADUO system applies only to the ICE, it allows teams to update their complete power unit. Ferrari used its first opportunity in Austria in June, but power-unit technical director Enrico Gualtieri described that package as a âlimitedâ update designed to give the team a stronger foundation. The Monza specification has always been viewed as the more substantial intervention.
The upgrade follows Ferrariâs recognition that rivals have neutralised its race-start advantage from running a smaller turbocharger. Ferrari will retain a smaller turbo than some competitors, but the revised unit will feature a larger impeller.
According to SPEEDWEEK, the changes could deliver an additional 15 horsepower as Ferrari seeks to reduce its power deficit to Mercedes. Ferrariâs simulations reportedly indicate that the gain could be worth approximately 0.2 seconds per lap at Monza.
A crucial moment for Hamilton and Leclerc
The timing gives the Italian Grand Prix particular importance for Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc. After 11 rounds, Mercedesâ Andrea Kimi Antonelli leads Hamilton by 50 points, while Leclerc sits fourth, 81 points from the championship lead. Ferrariâs title ambitions therefore depend heavily on whether the new power unit addresses its perceived weakness in power efficiency and acceleration.
The teamâs development plan does not stop at Monza. Further aerodynamic upgrades for the SF-26 are expected at the Dutch Grand Prix after the summer break, while Ferrari are believed to be targeting a final major update package for the United States Grand Prix, the 18th round of the planned 23-race season.
Ferrariâs push could also intersect with Mercedesâ own engine strategy. Mercedes are considering fitting Antonelliâs sole ADUO upgrade at Monza, where he is expected to serve a grid penalty. The Italian Grand Prix could consequently become a direct test of how quickly Ferrari can convert development potential into championship pressure.
For further context on Ferrariâs wider recovery plan, read Ferrari banks on Monza engine upgrade to revive 2026 title challenge.
Simone Scanu
Heâs a software engineer with a deep passion for Formula 1 and motorsport. He co-founded Formula Live Pulse to make live telemetry and race insights accessible, visual, and easy to follow.