The Scuderia Ferrari arrives at the China GP with renewed optimism after the start of the 2026 season. The Italian team finished in third and fourth place in the Austrália GP, with Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, while the Mercedes dominated with the double of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli. The Xangai circuit, with its long main straight, offers different conditions to the Australian circuit, especially in energy management, an area in which the Mercedes has excelled so far. The Ferrari plans to use an innovative FIA-approved rear wing to reduce drag and improve speed on the straights, which could even out the contest.
The main novelty of the Ferrari is the rear wing nicknamed “Macarena” by the team, which allows rotation of up to 180 degrees to generate more aerodynamic pressure in curves and less resistance in straight lines. Lewis Hamilton confirmed that the component was accelerated for debut in Xangai, after pre-season testing in Bahrein. The part arrives in three different specifications for evaluation over the weekend. Essa innovation aims to offset the Mercedes’s advantage in power and top speed observed in Melbourne.
The layout of Xangai requires less energy consumption compared to Albert Park, where drivers such as Leclerc and Max Verstappen criticized the system as overly dependent on overtaking modes. With the circuit less punishing in this aspect, the cars should come closer to traditional behavior, potentially reducing artificial overtaking and favoring those who best optimize active aerodynamics.
Debut of the “Macarena” wing in Xangai
The Ferrari decided to bring the rotating rear wing to the China GP in an aggressive way. The mechanism allows the upper flap to turn completely, optimizing air flow depending on the riding style. Isso improves stability in medium-speed curves and increases final speed on the 1.3 km long straight.
Lewis Hamilton praised the team’s effort to accelerate development. The Briton highlighted that the component was scheduled for later races, but the team worked hard to make it available now. The innovation can make a significant difference in the performance of the SF-26.
Sprint weekend challenges
The China GP marks the first sprint race of the 2026 season. With just a one-hour free practice session on Friday, teams have limited time to adjust to the new cars and regulations. The sprint classification takes place on Friday, followed by the start on the same day.
On Saturday, the grid for the main race is defined. The condensed format requires quick decisions about setup and power management. Ferrari sees an opportunity to learn more about the car-engine package under different conditions than Austrália.
Mercedes maintains favoritism, but rivals are getting closer
Mercedes opened the year with clear dominance in Melbourne, managing pace in the final part of the race. George Russell won with authority, and Kimi Antonelli completed the double. The German team benefits from superiority in energy and power management.
Even so, the Chinese circuit could reduce this advantage. The long straight favors low drag configurations, where the Ferrari’s new wing can equalize forces. Outras teams like Red Bull and McLaren are also looking to react after below-expected results in their debut.
Outlook for Hamilton and Leclerc
Lewis Hamilton has a positive track record in Xangai, including winning the previous year’s sprint. The pilot hopes that the innovative wing will help the Ferrari fight for the front. Charles Leclerc showed good initial pace in Austrália, taking the lead at the start before losing positions.
The Ferrari duo is betting on strong starts and a solid strategy to upset Mercedes. The technical layout of Xangai, with curves of variable radius and heavy braking zones, can enhance the aerodynamic balance of the SF-26.
Important test for Gabriel Bortoleto on Audi
Gabriel Bortoleto arrives at the China GP after scoring in the Audi debut in Melbourne, finishing in ninth place. The Brazilian highlighted the behind-the-scenes work of the German team, which built the car and engine from scratch for 2026.
Shanghai represents an opportunity to evaluate the car on a track closer to the pre-season tests at Bahrein. Bortoleto believes that the circuit can better showcase the team’s potential in the intermediate field, where Haas, Racing Bulls and Alpine are also competing for positions.
Innovations and general expectations
Other teams are preparing adjustments for the weekend. McLaren, current constructors’ champion, is seeking recovery after problems at Austrália. Red Bull admits initial difficulties and focuses on progressive improvements.
The China GP tests adaptation to new active aerodynamics and energy management regulations. With less energy requirements, the show can win in natural overtaking and real disputes on the track.
