Brawn expects 'vintage' Hamilton resurgence at Ferrari in 2026

Former Ferrari team principal Ross Brawn has expressed confidence that Lewis Hamilton will return to his peak form with the Scuderia in 2026. Despite a difficult debut season in 2025 that yielded no podium finishes, Brawn predicts a "vintage" performance if the team successfully gels and provides a competitive car under the new regulations.

Why it matters:

Hamilton's high-profile move to Ferrari is one of the most significant transfers in Formula 1 history, yet the 2025 season failed to meet the lofty expectations set by the seven-time champion's arrival. A resurgence in 2026 is critical not only for Hamilton's legacy but also for Ferrari's aspirations of ending their long-standing championship drought. The new regulatory reset offers a pivotal opportunity to reset the competitive order.

The details:

• Brawn's Insight: Having spent a decade at Maranello, Brawn understands the intense pressure and complex dynamics within Ferrari. He noted that while the team did not quite "gel" in 2025, the right incentives and a visible opportunity could trigger a return to Hamilton's best form.
• 2025 Struggles: Hamilton's first year with the Italian outfit was statistically challenging. He failed to secure a top-three finish in Grand Prix racing, with his sole taste of victory coming in the Sprint race at the Chinese Grand Prix.
• The 2026 Challenge: Hamilton recently acknowledged the "huge challenge" facing Ferrari following the shakedown of the SF-26 at Fiorano. However, he remains optimistic, viewing the sweeping regulation changes as a genuine chance to banish last year's struggles and make meaningful progress in car development.

Looking Ahead:

The 2026 season represents a clean slate for both Hamilton and Ferrari. With the team focusing on optimizing the new package and leveraging the regulatory reset, the coming campaign will reveal whether the partnership can finally deliver on its immense potential and challenge for the title.