Leclerc Urges Ferrari to Introduce Upgrades as Soon as Possible

Charles Leclerc has called on Ferrari to accelerate the introduction of planned upgrades to its SF-26 after the team continued to struggle for performance during the 2026 Formula 1 season.

After 15 rounds, Ferrari sit second in the Constructors’ Championship with 378 points, trailing leaders Mercedes by 160. Mercedes have secured 11 victories so far, compared with just two for the Italian team.

At the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Leclerc finished fourth, while teammate Lewis Hamilton came home sixth. Both drivers have repeatedly highlighted a lack of straight-line speed as one of Ferrari’s main weaknesses. Reducing aerodynamic downforce to improve top speed, however, has compromised the car’s performance through corners.

Leclerc confirmed that new components are being prepared but warned that they are unlikely to transform Ferrari’s competitiveness overnight.

“We have a few upgrades coming, but I don’t think they will revolutionise our speed,” the Monegasque driver said.

He believes Ferrari must focus on making consistent, incremental improvements, pointing to the progress made by McLaren and Red Bull in recent weeks.

With Mercedes continuing to develop its car, Leclerc wants Ferrari to introduce planned upgrades as early as possible rather than waiting for the ideal moment. Every week could prove crucial in the team’s efforts to close the gap to its rivals.