After the mid-season break, Formula 1 returns in Miami. It will be a sprint weekend, but more importantly, it represents a crucial moment to witness the first major upgrade packages from the teams. While those leading the championship would have preferred to keep racing uninterrupted, they remain unafraid of the competition and are fully aware that rivals will grow stronger as the season progresses. In a discussion with Mara Sangiorgio, Andrea Kimi Antonelli offered a clear perspective on how the season could unfold.
Antonelli is aware that the upcoming technical changes could reshape the competitive landscape: “There will be major changes, including the ADUO granted to Ferrari. This will allow them to develop the engine, and they will certainly get much closer. Their car is already strong, so if they improve the engine as well, they will become even more competitive.”
The ADUO is undoubtedly the most important tool available to teams for development in the coming months. This is particularly significant for Ferrari, as Frederic Vasseur has already emphasized, while also noting that the SF-26 will need to continue improving. McLaren, having the same engine, will need to rely mainly on aerodynamic development and optimizing their power unit, while in Maranello, the focus will be on aerodynamic upgrades, improving energy management software, and refining weekend execution. Once the ADUO is applied, Ferrari hopes to introduce a new engine specification that can at least reduce the gap to Mercedes.
Antonelli’s maturity also stands out in this context, showing an exclusive focus on his own performance, self-improvement, and understanding Mercedes’ work so far, which has provided their drivers with the best tools possible to tackle the 2026 season. “I’m not overly worried. When I go on track, I’ll focus on doing my best, concentrating on myself and the objectives of each weekend. I’m confident that we will also bring important upgrades. The car is already strong, and there’s a good dynamic within the team.”
The road ahead in 2026
The rest of the season will be crucial, and nothing should be taken for granted. Since the winter, all teams have reiterated that the test values and results from Australia will not necessarily reflect what will be seen throughout the entire season. Miami will mark the first significant ‘round’ of updates; teams are progressively improving in energy management and usage. Ultimately, the ADUO will make a major difference for those not powered by Mercedes. “I’m aware that other teams will catch up, but we need to keep pushing,” Antonelli reiterated, confident and determined.
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