P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Charles Leclerc is aware of just how much learning both he and the entire Ferrari outfit will need to undertake under F1’s new regulations.
Charles Leclerc has described the new power unit regulations in Formula 1 as the “biggest changes in F1 history,” portraying the significant challenge Ferrari has embraced. The updated regulations have brought about radical alterations to the power unit, such as the removal of the MGU-H and a boost in the MGU-K output from 120kW to 350kW. This season, the power units embody a 50-50 balance between electrical power and internal combustion, presenting a notable shift towards electrification. Ferrari has dedicated substantial effort to understand F1’s fresh regulations and their latest car, the SF-26, putting a halt to aerodynamic development on the previous year’s vehicle by the end of April. Following the unveiling of their new design, the Scuderia conducted an initial shakedown test at the Fiorano test track, with Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, followed by productive testing days at Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya. The ongoing transformations in Formula 1 will necessitate significant adjustments from both teams and drivers, a prospect that Leclerc finds very stimulating, as he delves into the complexities of the new systems and embraces the challenges and opportunities presented.
