The Italian Grand Prix could mark a turning point in the fight for the world title: while Ferrari plans to introduce a major evolution of its engine at Monza, Mercedes remains on guard.
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The German manufacturer is also reportedly working on a new engine specification, likely to include an evolution of the ADUO2 system to respond to the progress made by the Scuderia.
After Lando Norris’s victory in Hungary, a new demonstration that technical developments can quickly change the hierarchy, the main teams on the grid are actively preparing for the second half of the season.
Ferrari bets on its new 067/6 engine
Both Ferrari and Mercedes are expected to bring slight aerodynamic developments at the Dutch Grand Prix, but it is especially the Monza event that now holds all the attention. The Italian circuit, where engine power plays a decisive role, could highlight the innovations developed by the engine manufacturers more than aerodynamic improvements.
The Scuderia plans to debut its new 067/6 engine there, which would benefit from significant modifications to the combustion chamber as well as the turbocharger. The goal is to improve the powertrain’s efficiency, especially on circuits requiring little aerodynamic downforce, like Monza.
These developments could allow Ferrari to further reduce the gap with Mercedes, or even reshuffle the cards in the championship fight.
Mercedes accelerates development
On the Brackley side, Mercedes initially planned to reserve the main evolutions of its ADUO system for the 2027 season. However, several rumors now mention the early arrival of a new version of the M17 E Performance engine, which would also include modifications to the combustion chamber and turbocharger, as well as a new formulation of Petronas fuel.
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The objective is clear: to immediately respond to Ferrari’s progress and maintain an advantage in the fight for both championships. Beyond pure performance, Mercedes also has to deal with questions regarding the reliability of its power units.
Kimi Antonelli and George Russell have already used all the engine units allowed by the regulations. A strategic replacement at Monza could therefore allow the team to restart with a more powerful engine while limiting the impact of possible penalties on a track where overtaking remains possible. Conversely, Ferrari has so far enjoyed excellent reliability, an important asset in a season where every point counts.
Monza could reshuffle the cards
The engineers in Maranello believe that the SF-26, already very competitive in terms of chassis and aerodynamics, could take a new step forward thanks to its engine evolution.
Mercedes hopes, however, to respond with its own innovations to prevent Ferrari from definitively gaining the upper hand.
In a 2026 season more open than ever, the Italian Grand Prix could thus provide valuable indications on the continuation of the battle between the two manufacturers. Between technical developments, engine performance, and reliability, Monza promises to be one of the most decisive events of the second half of the championship.
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