Concerns emerge about 2026 Ferrari engine

Even before the season began, Vasseur insisted Ferrari would not sacrifice 2025 for the sake of 2026 development.

The Frenchman underscored that developing the SF-25 and unlocking its potential would be the priority until at least the summer break – at which point there would be a reassessment.

Of course, Ferrari have fallen short of expectations so far this year, and are increasingly unlikely to fight for the title.

This has created doubts about whether the factory in Maranello should expend vital resources on catching up to McLaren – whose advantage is roughly three tenths per lap.

For now, the team’s strategy is unchanged. More upgrades will arrive in the coming months, and the engineers in Maranello are still working on the SF-25 in the wind tunnel.

This does not mean 2026 is being completely ignored – there are some engineers already fully focused on next year’s car.

However, perhaps in an effort to prevent the negativity surrounding the team from intensifying, Fred Vasseur believes this year can be salvaged.

Conversations about 2026 engines

Over the last few weeks, conversation about the 2026 engine regulations has taken centre stage.

Conversations have taken place between the FIA and engine manufacturers about potential concerns over next year’s power units – with suggestions of returning to V10 engines being floated.

Although no significant changes for 2026 have been made, two teams are understood to have pushed for adjustments to shorten the upcoming regulation cycle – Red Bull and Ferrari.

It is hardly a surprise that Red Bull were in favour of making some tweaks.

Christian Horner’s team are very much playing catch-up to other established manufacturers. They are still assembling the necessary personnel and infrastructure to be competitive.

All indicators suggest Red Bull could be lagging behind the likes of Mercedes with their 2026 engine.

Potential Ferrari woes

However, it is notable that Ferrari were also in favour of making some adjustments to the combustion engine and battery distribution.

Mercedes and Honda, meanwhile, were vehemently against any changes.

This was likely due to confidence in their engine programme.

Most of the focus on next year’s power units has been centred on the other manufacturers: Mercedes, Honda, Audi and Red Bull Powertrains.

The Silver Arrows are expected to have the best engine, whilst Honda are expected to have better chances than the new entrants.

What has not been mentioned until recently is Ferrari’s progress, with suggestions emerging in the paddock the Scuderia are not meeting their engine targets for 2026.

Whilst verifying these claims is impossible, it seems plausible these suggestions are accurate. After all, why else would Ferrari push for the return of V10 engines to shorten next year’s engine regulations?

Looking ahead to the next twelve months, there will be plenty of scrutiny at the Maranello squad.

Only time will tell if they can salvage their 2025 season without compromising the upcoming regulations.