The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has confirmed that one of Scuderia Ferrari’s 2026 Formula 1 cars underwent a detailed technical inspection following the previous round of the championship, with the results now officially released ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix.
Ferrari have shown signs of improvement at the start of the 2026 season after a disappointing fourth-place finish in last year’s constructors’ standings. Much of the spotlight has been on Lewis Hamilton, who joined the Maranello outfit in 2025. After a challenging debut campaign that yielded just a single podium appearance, the seven-time world champion has begun to find form in his second year with the team.
At the most recent race in Shanghai, Hamilton secured a third-place finish, marking his first grand prix podium for Ferrari in 27 races. It was also his strongest full-race result since joining the team, as he finished ahead of teammate Charles Leclerc, who crossed the line in fourth position driving the SF-26.
Following the Chinese Grand Prix, Ferrari’s performance came under routine scrutiny from the FIA. As part of standard post-race procedures, one car from the top 10 finishers is randomly selected for an in-depth technical examination. On this occasion, Leclerc’s car was chosen for what the FIA described as “extensive” checks.
According to the official report released before the Suzuka weekend, the inspection focused heavily on the Ferrari’s rear wing adjuster system and its associated components. This included a thorough review of all connected sensors, their wiring configurations, and how they interface with the FIA’s standard electronic control unit (ECU).
The governing body also evaluated the number and type of actuators and sensors fitted to the car, ensuring they complied with the requirements set out in the technical regulations. Particular attention was paid to how these components were installed and whether their integration with the ECU met the prescribed standards.
In addition, the FIA carried out verification procedures on the identification and homologation status of both sensors and actuator valves. Engineers also examined how data signals were logged, as well as Ferrari’s official documentation submissions related to these systems, ensuring everything aligned with the regulatory framework.
After completing the inspection, FIA technical delegate Jo Bauer confirmed that no irregularities had been found. In his official statement, he noted that all examined components were fully compliant with the 2026 Formula One Technical Regulations.
This outcome means that Ferrari’s results from the Chinese Grand Prix remain unaffected, with Leclerc retaining his fourth-place finish and the team keeping all points earned during the race weekend.
The clean bill of health will come as a relief for Ferrari as they head into the Japanese Grand Prix, where they aim to build on their recent momentum. With Hamilton back on the podium and both drivers delivering competitive performances, the team appears to be regaining confidence as the 2026 season begins to take shape.