A fatal mistake has thrown Ferrari into serious trouble this season. What exactly went wrong, and where did their problems begin?
Ferrari is currently going through a complicated season because of one fatal mistake. Their title hopes have effectively vanished, and they need to do better in 2026 or it’s over for the team. So, what is the issue that has shaken the balance of the Italian team?
Ferrari’s fatal mistake begins in Shanghai
The disappointment in Shanghai remains a turning point for the team. On one hand, Lewis Hamilton was disqualified for excessive plank wear. On the other hand, Charles Leclerc was also excluded for an underweight car. This double penalty marked a clear before-and-after moment in Ferrari’s season.
Frédéric Vasseur, team principal, admitted the impact of this fatal mistake on Ferrari. To avoid further risks, the Scuderia raised the ride height of its cars. But that choice immediately reduced aerodynamic downforce, and therefore competitiveness. In Formula 1, every millimeter counts, and Ferrari lost a lot.
A loss of confidence that weighs on the drivers
The adjustments forced after Shanghai completely broke Ferrari’s early momentum. The team had started the year with a Hamilton sprint victory and pace close to McLaren. But since then, the Scuderia has fallen behind its direct rivals.
The drivers, too, feel this lack of confidence. Both Leclerc and Hamilton have sometimes had to lift off on straights to prevent the car from bottoming out. For champions who should be fighting for wins, Ferrari’s situation after this fatal mistake is nothing short of frustrating. The team became trapped in a technical compromise.
An unstable car despite improvements
Vasseur insists, however, that the real battle isn’t just about downforce. With this generation of ground-effect cars, stability is now the key. After the fatal mistake, Ferrari worked on improving aerodynamic consistency and introduced a new rear suspension.
The goal is to develop a car that feels more linear and predictable. Drivers must know they can attack without fearing a sudden loss of grip. This philosophy had already paid off at Monza in 2024, when Ferrari made a breakthrough with a better-balanced car.
What are the consequences of this fatal mistake?
The consequences of Ferrari’s fatal mistake are clear: the team has lost its momentum and its title ambitions. Meanwhile, McLaren and Red Bull have taken full advantage. This then leaves the Scuderia stuck in a difficult catch-up race.
Looking ahead, Ferrari must turn this crisis into an opportunity. The search for stability and confidence remains the key. After all, both Hamilton and Leclerc need a car capable of fighting without compromise. Only a fast reconstruction will help Ferrari climb back after its fatal mistake.