Brundle: A Happier Hamilton Means a Stronger Ferrari in 2026

Martin Brundle, Sky F1 analyst, says Lewis Hamilton’s brighter mood heading into 2026 could make him a faster Ferrari driver. After a winless 2025, Brundle believes a happier Hamilton will better exploit Ferrari’s new package.

Ferrari’s 2026 spec adds larger hybrid batteries, active aerodynamics and a bio‑fuel blend; Bahrain testing showed the team leading in race‑pace and outright speed.

Why it matters:

• Hamilton’s renewed confidence can unlock Ferrari’s hybrid power unit and active‑aero gains.
• A faster Hamilton revives the team’s title hopes, raises the stakes against Mercedes and Red Bull, and forces him to beat teammate Charles Leclerc.

The details:

• 2026 rules bring larger hybrid batteries, a mandatory bio‑fuel and active aerodynamics, forcing a full redesign of every car.
• Ferrari topped the private Bahrain test, showing strong race‑pace and tyre management, not just raw speed.
• Hamilton’s off‑track mindset improved with a new mental‑health focus and tougher fitness regime, but he still faces a hungry Leclerc inside the garage.

What's next:

• The season opens in Melbourne on March 6, where Ferrari’s new car will debut.
• Hamilton is targeting an intensified training plan to chase a possible eighth Drivers’ Championship, while Ferrari hopes to convert testing speed into podiums.