By: The Maranello team is going through a difficult period. In 2026, every time the SF-26 was expected to have the potential to perform well, it has fallen short of expectations, while on occasions when some difficulties were anticipated, it has even shone. It is a strange spell, one Ferrari absolutely must emerge from.
That is because, despite the disappointing Dutch result — Hamilton and Leclerc finishing fourth and fifth respectively — it does not mean the performance level was lacking. Charles fought for victory during the Sprint, while the pair stood out for their surprisingly quick race pace in stints on the Medium and Hard compounds.
The SF-26 is quick, but Ferrari needs to work on the team
The potential is there, but there are several issues team principal Frédéric Vasseur must address. 1) What is behind the difficulties in optimising the package? At times things go wrong for no apparent reason and, just as often, the result is so good that there is no explanation for it either. Both situations warrant thorough analysis.
2) The team is too nervous, and this is also reflected in the relationship between the drivers. What is needed is a relaxed environment. It is difficult: this is Ferrari, a team that is never forgiven for anything. Yesterday, we told you there may even be an unhealthy fear of making mistakes. That is certainly the case. But the team also needs to enjoy itself, and the Maranello outfit has not looked like a team enjoying what it does lately.
One more step is needed to strive for perfection
3) It is right to pursue perfection, but for now it almost seems like a taboo. During the Dutch weekend, one phrase was heard frequently inside the Ferrari garage: “We need to work on being perfect.” It is a wonderful and admirable aim, but in the current circumstances, from the outside it seems rather optimistic to think it can be achieved. Perfection only comes in places where there is harmony, and Ferrari currently appears to be anything but harmonious.
Perhaps this is the first area that should be addressed. Once a trusting, healthy and genuine environment has been built, where people can always work with a smile on their faces, perfection will come naturally.
Photo: Ferrari
All the news, photos, weather, session times and times from the Dutch GP 2026
