The 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza is set to be a pivotal moment for Ferrari. Beyond the home crowd’s excitement, this race could determine the team’s chances of challenging Mercedes for both world titles. Ferrari is introducing a power unit evolution, permitted by the FIA’s ADUO system, which could significantly alter the season’s dynamics.
The ADUO system, designed to assist manufacturers struggling with new power unit regulations, has sparked controversy. Surprisingly, Red Bull‘s power unit has been deemed the most efficient this season, despite only securing four podium finishes. This discrepancy arises because the ADUO evaluation focuses solely on the thermal component of the power unit, excluding the electric elements.
Ferrari’s Turbo Upgrade: A Strategic Shift
Ferrari’s power unit, led by Enrico Gualtieri’s team, initially followed a distinct design path. The team opted for a smaller turbo diameter to minimize turbo lag, enhancing responsiveness at start-up. However, the pre-start phase, which allows engines to rev freely for five seconds, negated this advantage, leaving Ferrari’s power unit at a disadvantage at high speeds.
For the Monza upgrade, Ferrari is addressing this issue by introducing a larger turbo. This change has extensive implications, affecting combustion, electronic management, fuel consumption, and power delivery. While not a structural overhaul, this evolution necessitates adjustments across all operational parameters of the power unit, including electrical charge management.
The ADUO System: Advantages and Disadvantages
The ADUO system offers additional development opportunities and budget allowances to manufacturers whose power units fall within specific performance thresholds. Mercedes, despite their dominance, will receive two new omologations in 2026 and. In contrast, Red Bull, despite having the most efficient thermal component, will not receive any additional development opportunities this season.
This outcome stems from the ADUO system’s evaluation periods. Red Bull’s power unit was consistently more than 2% efficient than Mercedes’ during the first two periods. For Mercedes to reverse this trend in the second period, they would have had to gain a 4% advantage without introducing upgrades, a scenario deemed implausible by the FIA.
The ADUO system also provides additional testing hours and budget allowances. Mercedes could gain up to 210 extra testing hours and $9 million in additional budget, while Ferrari could secure up to 330 extra testing hours and $14 million in additional budget. These resources are crucial for developing next year’s power units, putting Red Bull at a significant disadvantage.
Looking Ahead to
Ferrari’s Monza upgrade, featuring a new turbo and refined combustion, sets the stage for further developments in. The team will have two additional evolution opportunities next season, with the first upgrade serving as the baseline for the power unit. Benchmark tests indicate a more than 2% increase in power output, thanks to the new turbo and Shell’s refined fuel.
As the season progresses, the impact of the ADUO system and Ferrari’s upgrade will become clearer. For now, all eyes are on Monza, where Ferrari’s power unit evolution could mark a turning point in the 2026 F1 season.
