Ferrari tests new flat floor in Austin

Ferrari may introduce a redesigned flat floor during the United States Grand Prix in Austin to enhance the performance of its SF-26 car for the remainder of the season. The team is focusing on improving aerodynamic efficiency and adaptability across different track conditions, even as it shifts attention toward the 2027 model.

Flat floor aims to improve adaptability

The new flat floor is intended to widen the operating window of the car, allowing engineers to adjust suspension settings more freely without reducing aerodynamic performance. This could help the SF-26 perform better on varied tracks, including the bumpy Circuit of the Americas, where suspension flexibility is crucial.

COTA as a test for new design

The Circuit of the Americas, known for its rough surface and elevation changes, could serve as an ideal testing ground for the new flat floor. Additional modifications to the bodywork and sidepods are also being considered, potentially for later races like the Mexican Grand Prix.

Ferrari in second place in championship

Ferrari currently holds second place in the constructors' championship with 444 points, trailing Mercedes (578 points) but leading McLaren (339) and Red Bull (332). The competition remains highly dynamic, with each team experiencing periods of dominance throughout the season.

Red Bull's recent performance noted

Although Red Bull has shown strong form recently, including Max Verstappen's double victory in Singapore, Ferrari's team principal, Frederic Vasseur, cautions against seeing them as the definitive benchmark. He highlights the close competition among the top teams and the potential for standings to shift with new technical updates.

Ferrari seeks to boost competitiveness

Ferrari aims to use the new flat floor to increase the SF-26's versatility and performance in the final races of the season. Success could bring the team closer to Mercedes and potentially secure a victory before the year ends, marking one of its last major technical efforts for the 2026 season.