Hamilton Admits Ferrari's 2025 Was Worse Than Expected, Defends 2026 Focus

Lewis Hamilton says he was not psychologically impacted by Ferrari's early decision to halt 2025 development and focus on the 2026 season. However, the seven-time world champion admits the SF-25's struggles were more severe than he had anticipated. Despite a winless Grand Prix campaign, Hamilton maintains he fully supported—and even pushed for—the strategic pivot to avoid falling behind.

Why it matters:

• Hamilton's high-profile move to Ferrari was met with massive expectations, and a winless season could be viewed as a major disappointment. His comments reframe the 2025 campaign as a necessary sacrifice for a greater goal.
• Ferrari's aggressive early shift to 2026 is a significant gamble. Hamilton's public endorsement lends credibility to this long-term strategy and shows unity within the team during a difficult period.
• The 2026 season, with its radical new regulations, represents a massive opportunity. Ferrari's all-in approach, backed by its star driver, signals a clear intention to return to championship contention.

The details:

• Ferrari ceased development of the SF-25 back in April to fully commit to the 2026 project, which features new chassis and engine regulations.
• The 2025 car failed to win a Grand Prix, with Charles Leclerc securing all seven of the team's podiums. Hamilton's sole victory was in the China Sprint race.
• Hamilton's Stance: "It didn’t have a psychological effect on me, personally... I still do think it was the right decision, particularly with where we were already with the car. We weren’t fighting for a championship."
• Work on the 2026 car is already underway, with Hamilton scheduled to be in the simulator "next week." He noted the off-season break is "the shortest that we’ve ever had."

What's next:

• The team will conduct a post-season test in Bahrain using tires designed for the 2026 regulations, providing an early glimpse into the new era.
• Hamilton and Charles Leclerc will continue as Ferrari's driver lineup for the 2026 season, carrying the weight of expectation for the team's ambitious new project.
• All eyes will be on Ferrari's 2026 challenger to see if their early and aggressive development strategy pays off, validating the sacrifice of the 2025 season.