Ferrari brings cooling upgrades for Mexico altitude
Ferrari has introduced an enlarged rear bodywork exit and additional sidepod louvre panels on the SF-26 for the 2026 Mexico City Grand Prix. The changes increase power-unit cooling capacity at high altitude while accepting a reduction in aerodynamic efficiency. Multiple teams submitted similar circuit-specific updates ahead of the event at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.
Cooling demands at altitude
The Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez sits at approximately 2,200 meters above sea level. Lower air density reduces the effectiveness of heat exchangers and cooling systems. Ferrari submitted two circuit-specific updates for the 2026 Mexico City Grand Prix to address this challenge. [1]
Specific modifications
The team enlarged the rear bodywork exit on the engine cover. This creates a larger opening for hot air to escape from the power unit and associated cooling systems. Additional louvred cooling panels were added to the upper sidepods to provide another route for heat rejection. [2]
Both changes are classified as cooling-range measures; Ferrari acknowledges they reduce aerodynamic efficiency. The updates match descriptions from the FIA technical list for the event. [3]
Broader context
Related reading
- [1]Technical updates: 2026 Mexico City Grand Prix (racer). Accessed 2026-11-01.
- [2]F1 teams reveal upgrade plans for Mexican GP weekend (gpblog). Accessed 2026-11-01.
- [3]Ferrari reveals two SF-26 cooling upgrades for Mexico GP as FIA confirms changes (scuderiafans). Accessed 2026-11-01.