Judging by their lacklustre 2025 season, Scuderia Ferrari F1 clearly needs a revolution now—but they seem content to wait for 2026 for that transformation to happen. Sweeping new regulations will take effect in 2026, and every engine manufacturer—not just Ferrari—is busy refining their technology in preparation. The regulations stipulate that 2026-spec engines must have a 50/50 split between combustion and electric power, along with the use of active aerodynamics and sustainable fuels.

However, according to various media reports, Ferrari has developed a “top-secret” engine featuring an advanced new air intake system. Well, it seems it’s not so secret anymore. For those yawning at the engineering side of things, let me enlighten you:

Air intake systems boost engine performance by delivering cooler, cleaner, and denser air, which enhances combustion efficiency. This results in increased horsepower, quicker throttle response, better fuel economy, and a more aggressive engine sound. Additionally, cleaner airflow protects engine components, improving durability and longevity.

Ferrari abandoned a proposed innovative steel cylinder head design by outgoing ICE and R&D head Wolf Zimmermann due to reliability issues. Zimmermann, expected to join Audi F1 after completing work on Ferrari’s 2026 engine, will likely be followed by his deputy Lars Schmidt.

Enrico Gualtieri will take over Ferrari’s engine department. The design change has reportedly set Ferrari back in development, leaving the team behind Mercedes and close to Honda in the development race.

In Formula One, the rule of the game is never to judge next year by the current season—and always keep your cards face down on the table. Ferrari has not made any official statement regarding this supposedly revolutionary engine, and it’s not in their nature to boast publicly.

As usual, these media reports are probably based more on rumour and speculation than on solid facts. In other words, the media doesn’t seem to have much better to do with their time.