Following a tough 2025 campaign, Ferrari are already dealing with a setback ahead of the new season, this time linked to an ongoing issue with their fuel supplier.
The sport is also shifting to fully sustainable fuels as part of the 2026 rules, which aim to lower F1’s overall carbon output.
Every team has its own fuel supplier, all working to find the best blend that can give their teams a competitive edge.
This has caused concern among fans who are still waiting for the Scuderia to return to their former heights. The changes have sparked questions about how well-prepared Ferrari are for the upcoming challenges.
And coming off a rough year in 2025, it’s possible that more frustration awaits them next season—this time because of things they may not be able to control.
Ferrari’s synthetic fuel lags behind the grid
According to a report by Motorpasion Moto, the Scuderia’s fuel supplier is currently developing the ‘least advanced’ calibre of synthetic fuel in line with the new regulations.
The partnership between Ferrari and Shell dates back to Enzo Ferrari’s first steps into car manufacturing, making it one of the longest-running relationships in motorsport.
Shell also provides fuel for Ducati Corse in MotoGP, who are expected to face similar challenges when that series moves to sustainable fuels in 2027.
The report also mentioned that Shell chose a different approach in its development process compared to other suppliers, which has reportedly led to some early setbacks.
With less than two months until pre-season testing begins, there isn’t much time left for Shell’s engineers to address these issues before cars hit the track.
Early problems aren’t uncommon when major regulation changes are introduced, particularly around engine specifications.
If Shell’s product doesn’t meet expectations soon, Ferrari could be looking at a frustrating start to the year while they work through reliability concerns.
Aston Martin are understood to have the ‘most advanced’ formula of synthetic fuel
As synthetic fuels remain a developing aspect of F1’s new regulations, the gap between teams who nail it and those who don’t could become quite noticeable.
According to the report, Aston Martin appear to be in a strong position, with their supplier Aramco providing what’s considered the ‘most advanced’ fuel formula so far.
They’re also set to be the only team running Honda engines, as part of an exclusive agreement. Honda has made it clear they’re not looking to expand their partnerships beyond Aston Martin at this stage.
Honda Racing Corporation President Koji Watanabe recently spoke about this decision in an interview with Aston Martin.
“For the moment, we’re not considering supplying any other teams. We want to concentrate on winning with Aston Martin Aramco,” he said. “In the future, if there are benefits to supplying multiple teams, in terms of the feedback that provides, then yes, of course, it is something we would consider.”
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