Lewis Hamilton is expected to receive an engine and fuel upgrade at this weekend’s Formula 1 Austrian Grand Prix in the Styrian mountains.
The news follows confirmation that Ferrari will be one of the manufacturers awarded ADUO (Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities) for its 2026 power unit, while rivals Mercedes and Red Bull have missed out.
According to Motorsport.com, Ferrari is now ready to introduce updates to its engine along with a new Shell fuel, pending FIA approval.
The upgrades are hoped to reduce Ferrari’s horsepower deficit to its rivals and help Hamilton and Charles Leclerc fight at the front more consistently.
Paddock speculation suggests the package could be worth anywhere between 5-30hp, although no exact figure will be known until the cars hit the track in FP1, should the upgrades receive FIA approval.
Following the seven-time world champion’s maiden victory in Ferrari red just over a week ago, the boost in both morale and performance at Maranello could prove to be a turning point in this year’s 2026 title battle, with Hamilton now just 41 points behind championship leader Kimi Antonelli.
Ferrari also introduced eight technical upgrades at the previous round in Barcelona, with Hamilton’s victory offering an early indication of their effectiveness. The Red Bull Ring, however, presents a very different challenge. Its high-speed nature and heavy emphasis on power-unit performance should provide another strong indication of whether Ferrari’s latest developments are delivering the gains Hamilton and the team are hoping for.
This weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix will run under the standard Grand Prix weekend format, with a full BMM preview to follow in due course.
