F1's 2026 Shake-Up: Ferrari Bets Big As Regs Redefine The Season

Defector’s six-story 2026 preview centers on a sweeping regulations overhaul—active aerodynamics, new power units without an MGU-H, and a heavier emphasis on energy management and a five-second pre-start—creating a season where strategy and driver micromanagement may trump raw speed; Cadillac debuts with Checo Pérez and Valtteri Bottas, Aston Martin battles a reliability crisis, rookies have grown into potential threats, and Ferrari looks strongest in testing, setting them up as favorites though Mercedes, McLaren, and Red Bull remain threats and the winner remains uncertain.