Leclerc Tempers Ferrari Upgrade Optimism Ahead of Miami

Ferrari arrives at Miami with 11 upgraded components on its SF-26, but Charles Leclerc remains unconvinced the package will close the gap to Mercedes this weekend.

Friday, 01 May 2026 Miami Grand Prix Round 4

Ferrari Brings Upgrade Package to Miami

Ferrari has introduced 11 updated components to its SF-26 ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, according to Motorsport.com. The timing capitalises on Miami's suitability for upgrades, particularly given that the April rounds in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain were cancelled, giving teams more development runway before this weekend's race.

Leclerc: Mercedes Still Favoured Despite Updates

Despite the comprehensive upgrade package, Charles Leclerc has tempered expectations about Ferrari's competitive position. According to Motorsport.com, Leclerc believes Mercedes will still maintain a performance advantage at Miami, suggesting the Scuderia's updates may not be sufficient to close the gap to the championship leaders.

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RacingNews365 reported that Leclerc does not expect Mercedes to be suddenly caught in the battle ahead, reinforcing his cautious outlook on Ferrari's prospects this weekend.

Early Session Pace

PlanetF1 noted that Charles Leclerc set the pace in FP1, marking an early positive for Ferrari as the team assessed its upgrade package in real-world conditions at Miami.

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