Following on from cars such as the F355 Challenge, F430 Challenge, and 488 Challenge, which it replaces, its specification closely relates to that of the 296 GT3 which made its debut at the 24 Hours of Daytona at the beginning of 2023.
As with the non-homologated racers that have gone before, aerodynamics have been a core focus for the engineering programme, resulting in downforce figures that are said to be unheard of in Ferrari’s race series – mostly achieved through a carbonfibre, body-width rear spoiler that sits higher than the roofline.
At 155mph, the 296 Challenge generates 870kg of downforce when its spoiler is extended to its most severe angle. For context, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS generates 860kg of downforce at 177mph.
Cecconi added: “We gave it maximum downforce and minimum sensitivity to make the car as predictable as possible during the different dynamic conditions of the track”.
It is said to generate 18% more downforce than the preceding 488 Evo Challenge, and laps Mugello a whole two seconds quicker.
Its top speed is said to be slower than the preceding 488 Evo Challenge, but Ferrari says it counters this by being faster through corners.
Stopping power comes from a braking system adapted and improved over the road-going 296’s, called ABS EVO Track, it features carbon-ceramic discs developed by Brembo specifically for the racing market, and chosen for their durability and resistance to wear. Ferrari claim the discs are three times longer-lasting than those of the 488 Evo Challenge, and the pads twice as long lasting.