Official: Ferrari to introduce second ADUO power-unit upgrade at Monza

Ferrari brings second engine upgrade to its home race

Ferrari will introduce its second Formula 1 power-unit upgrade of the season at this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix, using the additional development allowance granted under the Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) system.

Introduced this year, ADUO gives engine manufacturers extra opportunities to improve their power units when they are judged to be behind on performance. The assessment is made quarterly, and Ferrari was awarded two upgrade opportunities after being deemed more than 4% behind Red Bull, which was controversially identified as Formula 1’s benchmark.

The Scuderia introduced its first revised specification in Austria. The latest version will now debut at Monza, alongside a rear-wing update designed for the circuit’s low-downforce demands. The move follows Ferrari’s previously reported plan to bring the upgrade to its home event; Ferrari’s ADUO engine debut at Monza provides further context on the timing of the package.

Ferrari targets a smaller Mercedes deficit

Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur described the new power unit as “a step in the right direction”, while stressing that the team’s progress this season will depend on marginal gains across every area.

“Monza is a demanding circuit and the field is extremely close. Our priority will be to execute every aspect of the weekend as well as possible from Friday onwards,” Vasseur said.

The upgrade is understood to deliver an additional 15bhp. That gain is expected to halve Ferrari’s deficit to the Mercedes power unit, which is believed to be the strongest complete package despite the ADUO rankings. Ferrari’s engine shortfall has held the team back during the 2026 season, even though its chassis is considered to be on a par with, or potentially better than, Mercedes’ championship-leading car. Mercedes currently leads Ferrari by 87 points.

A home race with added significance

Ferrari will also run a Michael Schumacher-inspired livery at Monza, marking 30 years since the seven-time world champion made his debut with the team. Schumacher went on to win five titles with the Scuderia, and Vasseur said his pursuit of improvement, attention to detail and belief in teamwork remain important values for Ferrari.

“Monza is always a very special weekend for Ferrari,” Vasseur added. “Racing in front of our tifosi gives the whole team incredible energy.” Ferrari is seeking its first Italian Grand Prix victory since Charles Leclerc won in 2024.