# Ferrari's Performance Gap in 2026 F1 Car

> Charles Leclerc admits Ferrari's 2026 car lacks raw speed compared to rivals.
- Title: Ferrari's Performance Gap in 2026 F1 Car · Motorsport
- Summary: Charles Leclerc admits Ferrari's 2026 car lacks raw speed compared to rivals. Ferrari's 2026 F1 car has a fundamental performance deficit in straight-line…
- Keywords: ferrari, charles leclerc, 2026 f1 car, formula 1, ferrari performance, ferrari upgrade, sports, cars, Ferrari's, Performance, Gap, 2026
- Source: Motorsport — https://motorsport.com/f1/news/charles-leclerc-makes-worrying-ferrari-admission-ahead-of-major-f1-upgrade/10866596
- Author: Alex Harrington
- Published: 2026-10-21T08:00:04+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: ferrari, charles leclerc, f1, 2026 f1 car, formula 1, ferrari performance, ferrari upgrade, sports, cars
## Ferrari's 2026 Car Performance
Charles Leclerc identifies a fundamental performance deficit in Ferrari's 2026 Formula 1 car.

> I’m not sure we are particularly good on Fridays
## Engine Modes Impact
Leclerc says rivals' engine modes cause Ferrari's performance gap during qualifying.

> I believe it comes more from the engine modes that others are running
## Car Balance Strength
Ferrari arrives at races with a well-balanced car due to simulator preparation.

> One of our strengths as a team is straight from the get-go having a car with a good balance
## Performance Limitations
Ferrari's car lacks raw speed compared to main competitors despite peaky design.

> The raw potential of the car is not at the level of our main competitors
## 2026 F1 Upgrade Timeline
Ferrari plans major upgrade with new floor, sidepods, and bodywork for Austin race.

> This has been a long time coming
## Current Championship Standings
Ferrari sits second in constructors' championship with 444 points, 134 behind Mercedes.

> Ferrari sits second in the constructors’ championship on 444 points, 134 points behind Mercedes
## Key takeaway

Ferrari's 2026 F1 car has a fundamental performance deficit in straight-line speed, with Leclerc saying rivals' engine modes cause the gap.