Ferrari is preparing a particular technical approach for the Belgian Grand Prix to reduce Mercedes’ advantage on the long straights of Spa-Francorchamps and turn the situation around.
Read more Fernando Alonso forced to miss the Belgian Grand Prix FP1
After winning two of the last three races, the Scuderia wants to continue its momentum and definitively turn the page on the difficulties encountered in Austria.
To achieve this, the Italian team would be ready to take more risks in the SF-26 setup to further unlock the potential of the 067/6 engine while reducing aerodynamic drag.
Ferrari would abandon its STM system
For the first time this season, Ferrari would consider not using its STM system and adopting a configuration without blown exhaust. This solution, previously tested by young Dino Beganovic, is intended to allow the SF-26 to reach higher speeds on the long straights of the Belgian circuit.
Technical director Loïc Serra would notably seek to recover some of the power lost due to the exhaust blockage. This development also fits into the perspective of upcoming FIA regulatory changes, which should soon ban the use of exhaust gases for aerodynamic purposes.
Ferrari is also working on an evolution of its reversible wing concept to improve the compromise between top speed and aerodynamic downforce.
A new wing to gain 11 km/h
Red Bull uses a similar solution, but its system has recently been in the spotlight after several incidents. Ferrari, on its side, would have encountered no reliability issues with its own device.
Read more A more uncertain weather unfortunately expected for the Belgian Grand Prix
The new configuration could allow the SF-26 to gain up to 11 km/h on the straights, a potentially significant advantage at Spa-Francorchamps if weather conditions allow Ferrari to use this solution.
However, preparation for the Belgian Grand Prix is not limited to seeking top speed. Energy management will also be one of the main challenges of the weekend.
Energy management at the center of concerns
Spa has different characteristics from Silverstone, but its long full-throttle sections could put the new power units to a tough test.
Contrary to some rumors, Ferrari’s work in the simulator would continue normally. Charles Leclerc and the development drivers would have actively participated in preparing for the Belgian weekend.
Ferrari therefore seems ready to adopt a particularly aggressive strategy for Spa. After its recent successes, the Scuderia now wants to demonstrate that it can also compete with Mercedes on one of the most demanding circuits on the calendar in terms of power, aerodynamic efficiency, and energy management.
Read more Back on the «bug» of the safety car at Silverstone: regulations followed to the letter