F1 Bahrain GP FP2: Ferrari improves balance as SF-26 responds to major setup work

Ferrari showed marked improvement in car balance during Bahrain Grand Prix FP2 as Charles Leclerc topped the timesheets following major setup adjustments on the SF-26. After a difficult opening practice session, both Leclerc and teammate Lewis Hamilton tested new braking-system configurations and revised setups on Medium and Soft tyres despite light rain briefly disrupting the session.

The team also gathered encouraging race-pace data during heavy-fuel simulations, with lap times comparing favorably to direct rivals Mercedes and McLaren. While Leclerc appeared comfortable with the car, Hamilton reported persistent instability under braking and difficulty managing tyre degradation, highlighting key areas for Ferrari to refine ahead of the remaining weekend running.