Ferrari’s apparent straight-line advantage has become the central talking point on the latest episode of Up To Speed.
In the newly released episode, Naomi Schiff, Will Buxton, Jolie Sharpe and David Coulthard examine the final pre-season test before the 2026 Formula One opener in Australia, questioning whether Ferrari have already taken control of the competitive order.
Discussing the team’s pace, Will says: “The way it looks at the moment, Ferrari could qualify on the back row of the grid and be leading the Grand Prix by Turn One.”
The panel focus on Ferrari’s dramatic rear wing concept, which flips 180 degrees on the straights to reduce drag and induce lift. The design is credited with producing exceptional straight-line speed and rapid race starts during testing, where Ferrari topped the timesheets.
David, however, cautions against assuming total dominance in Melbourne, adding: “I don’t think we’ll see the dominance of a start in Melbourne”.
Beyond aerodynamics, the episode also turns to engines, with Mercedes at the centre of discussion. Addressing whether its reported advantage is overplayed, Will states: “It’s not a storm in a teacup at all…”
The team debate claims that Mercedes have found a way to extract more performance when the engine is running at temperature than under FIA testing conditions.
With any regulatory change unlikely before mid-season, the conversation raises the prospect of a significant early head start for Mercedes powered teams.
Aston Martin’s difficult pre-season test is also scrutinised. After what is described as a troubled programme, the team are said to be several seconds off the pace and completed just six laps on the final day.
David reflects the mood, saying: “I would not want to be in the same room as Fernando Alonso right now.”
The episode also reveals Ferrari had previously flagged potential race start issues under the 2026 regulations. Will says: “Ferrari raised the issue… over a year ago. The FIA said it’ll all be fine.”
Further discussion covers whether some teams may still be sandbagging, why engines rather than aerodynamics could define the title fight, and reaction to the recent Max Verstappen episode, which has already passed half a million views.
Up To Speed is available now on Global Player and other major podcast platforms.
