The Ferrari 296 Challenge is expected to be released in 2024 to replace the Ferrari 488 Challenge Evo. The 296 Challenge was spotted testing at Monza in February 2023. It will be part of Ferrari’s global one-make racing programs.
Ferrari’s new 296 Challenge is a game-changing addition to the brand’s competitive racing series, marking its grand debut for the upcoming 2024 season. Unveiled at the Mugello Circuit during the Finali Mondiali, this track monster is the ninth model fielded by Ferrari in the history of its 32-season-long single-make championship. The development team made no compromises, significantly improving the original model, reflecting Ferrari’s exceptional motorsport experience, and targeting aspiring GT racers. This isn’t your standard Ferrari Challenge car. It represents a leap from modestly modified production cars to something substantially more evolved and track-focused. An array of important design changes enhances its track performance and aerodynamics, making it an extreme machine that sets new standards on the track.
For the first time, a V6 engine powers a Ferrari single-make series car. The hybrid powertrain has been removed to shed weight, while the power output has soared to an incredible 690 horsepower. This car boasts a record-breaking 234 cv/l specific power output, courtesy of several engine modifications like a 10% increase in maximum turbo speed to 180,000 rpm. The aerodynamic highlights of the 296 Challenge are equally impressive, with innovations like the S-Duct and swan-neck rear wing layout derived from its racing counterpart, the 296 GT3. These advancements have resulted in unimaginable downforce figures. Braking technology also gets a complete overhaul with the first-ever use of CCM-R PLUS discs.
These advancements, along with newly developed Pirelli tires, make the 296 Challenge two seconds faster around Mugello than its predecessor, the 488 Challenge Evo. Ferrari made significant modifications in vehicle dynamics as well. New long-fiber carbon CCM-R PLUS brake discs and a circuit-specific ABS EVO Track system contribute to its industry-leading braking performance. All these radical changes set the 296 Challenge apart, making it a machine that pushes boundaries while also setting new benchmarks in the world of motorsports.