P1racenews AI automatic summary:
One of Ferrari’s stand out advantages early on in the 2026 Formula 1 season was its starts – but it is an edge that it may now have lost
Early in the 2026 Formula 1 season, Ferrari excelled in starts thanks to a smaller turbo that allowed for quick getaways, giving drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton an edge. However, changes in regulations following safety concerns led to alterations in starting procedures, impacting Ferrari’s advantage. Despite initial success in races like Australia, China, and Miami, Ferrari’s starting positions have gradually declined over the season, as seen in the data from races like the Canadian Grand Prix. McLaren has emerged as a strong competitor in starts, affecting Ferrari’s relative performance. This shift highlights the evolving dynamics in Formula 1 and the competition among teams for race starts and positions.
