Haas F1 Team has introduced its most significant upgrade of the 2026 season at the Italian Grand Prix, aiming to regain competitiveness in the midfield after a challenging run of six races without scoring points. The package includes a new chassis and revised bodywork, marking a clear step in the team’s development efforts this year.
Oliver Bearman, one of Haas’s drivers, described the upgrade’s impact as a “night and day difference” compared to earlier performances this season. After the second free practice session at Monza, Bearman recorded the eighth fastest time, noting that the car felt more predictable and stable despite having less downforce than at the previous round in Zandvoort. His feedback highlighted the importance of the upgrade and reflected pride in the team’s work to bring these changes to the track.
Meanwhile, Esteban Ocon, Haas’s other driver, did not run the upgraded Ferrari power unit during the session. His FP2 was affected by traffic and a technical issue with the rear-right corner, resulting in an 18th-place finish. These factors limited his ability to fully assess the new package at this stage of the weekend.
Haas currently sits seventh in the teams’ standings, trailing Racing Bulls and Alpine, with Audi close behind. The upgrades at Monza are part of Haas’s attempt to close the gap to the midfield pack and improve their race pace after a difficult stretch. The new chassis and bodywork represent a notable technical step, though the full effect of these changes will become clearer as the weekend progresses and the team gathers more data.
Oliver Bearman’s positive remarks underline the significance of the upgrade for Haas, especially given the challenges faced earlier in the season. The improved stability and predictability of the car could provide a platform for more consistent performances moving forward. However, the team remains cautious, recognizing that this is an early evaluation and further work will be needed to fully exploit the new package.
Esteban Ocon’s limited running with the upgraded power unit means his feedback will be delayed, but the team will likely focus on maximizing both drivers’ input to refine the car’s setup. Haas’s position in the standings reflects the competitive nature of the midfield, where small gains can have a meaningful impact on race results.
The Italian Grand Prix weekend has offered Haas a chance to test these upgrades on a high-speed circuit like Monza, where aerodynamic efficiency and chassis balance are critical. The team’s progress here will be closely monitored as they aim to regain momentum and build on the encouraging signs shown in practice.
Overall, Haas’s upgrade package at Monza marks a significant step in their 2026 campaign, with Oliver Bearman’s feedback highlighting tangible improvements. While it remains early to draw definitive conclusions, the changes are intended to help the team move closer to the midfield battle and improve their competitiveness in the championship.