Nobody quite knows what the Formula 1 pecking order will look like at the start of the new regulations in January 2026.

The new rulebook brings some of the biggest changes seen in the modern era, making it impossible for any driver in the Formula 1 driver market to make a move to a definite top team.

Despite rumblings that Mercedes will start with a strong engine, much as they did in 2014 before going on to dominate for years, little is known about their competitors’ efforts.

Ferrari adjusted well to a major change in 2017 and became challengers for the drivers’ championship. It’s entirely possible that they emulate that next year too, especially with Lewis Hamilton’s in-house experience.

After a difficult 2025 campaign, Ferrari are suffering one problem that hurts Charles Leclerc and cannot seem to sort their energy management in Q3. It’s costing him spots on the grid.

One problem is that Leclerc disagrees with Ferrari about a new update and doesn’t believe that an incoming rear suspension fix will rectify their woes.

Photo by Mark Sutton – Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images

Ferrari preparing ‘extreme’ 2026 solution to counter Mercedes’ reported engine ‘advantage’

Hamilton has taken a step backwards at Ferrari and is currently on his longest streak without a podium since he made his debut in 2007.

Earning a trophy soon would see him regain some much-needed confidence ahead of 2026, which could spell one of his last chances to claim a record eighth title.

Franco Nugnes now reports that the Scuderia are preparing an ‘extreme’ power unit design to counteract whatever Mercedes brings to the table next season. It could be a significant development.

“But I don’t see any major problems at the car level, honestly, Antonio. Well, I see them in terms of the reliability of the power unit. Of something that will be there for those who are further ahead,” he said.

“And it is said in fact, repeatedly and continuously that Mercedes, or rather the Mercedes power unit, should have an advantage, but then from the rebounds that come.

“For example, at Maranello, they talk about an engine that is from a very extreme design point of view, with extremely interesting solutions and that something perhaps could pay something in terms of reliability due to the fact that it doesn’t yet have petrol and fuel, let’s say, more extreme than those we are talking about. This is the feeling.”

How much longer does Lewis Hamilton have on his Ferrari F1 contract?

Hamilton’s Ferrari deal was signed nearly 18 months ago, and since then, he has failed to reach the sort of form that many of his fans hoped he could again.

He ended a winless streak in 2024 with Mercedes, but since making the move to Maranello, he has been marred by an SF25 with multiple issues.

Ferrari data highlights a critical race issue, which suggests that dirty air is causing them some big problems. It’s something that will need to be eliminated if they want to compete next season.

Otherwise, they risk wasting the potential of the final year of Hamilton’s deal. He does have an option for 2027, but if the performance isn’t there, both parties may opt against continuing.