Fernando Alonso has identified a potential competitive advantage held by Scuderia Ferrari ahead of the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix 2026, particularly under the threat of wet race conditions that remain largely untested under the current regulations. Forecast thunderstorms prompted the FIA to move the race start forward, increasing the level of uncertainty across the grid.
The key factor highlighted by Alonso is Ferrari’s prior wet-weather testing programme with Pirelli at Fiorano. During that session, Lewis Hamilton gathered valuable data on tyre behaviour, aerodynamic balance, and load transfer characteristics of the current-generation cars in wet conditions—data that most teams have yet to obtain in a race-representative environment.
From a technical standpoint, understanding wet and intermediate tyre performance is critical at the Miami International Autodrome, a circuit highly sensitive to grip evolution. Ferrari is expected to benefit from a more refined baseline setup, particularly in managing tyre temperature windows and ensuring rear-end stability under traction-limited exits from low-speed corners.
However, this advantage is not entirely exclusive. Racing Bulls also conducted a wet-weather test at Suzuka following the Japanese Grand Prix, giving them an additional data reference point. While conditions and parameters may differ, it reduces the relative gap in preparedness compared to Ferrari’s programme.
On the performance side, Alonso faces significant challenges with Aston Martin. He qualified 17th, although he will gain a position following the disqualification of Isack Hadjar. A critical issue emerged with the gearbox, directly impacting braking stability and traction—two key performance areas in wet conditions.
"Let's say that in dry conditions, we have no chance, and in wet conditions, probably we don't have a chance either. But you never know what can happen in a wet race, and it will be the first time with these cars and these rules for us to drive in the wet."
"Only Ferrari had that luxury with unlimited tests with Pirelli and other things, but we just need to take the opportunities with the race. We are not Ferrari, so we need to learn from that."
"The biggest problem in qualifying was the gearbox. It was the first time this weekend, and it was impossible to drive. Downshifts were completely inconsistent—sometimes I had traction, sometimes rear locking—so it was a bad surprise."
With unstable weather conditions and unresolved technical concerns, performance variables remain wide open. Ferrari enters the race with a stronger data foundation, while teams like Aston Martin must rely on rapid adaptation. The Miami outcome could serve as an early benchmark for wet-weather competitiveness in the 2026 season, shaping strategic approaches heading into the next round.
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