Hamilton reflects on tough Ferrari debut, eyes 2026 rebound
After a disappointing first year with Ferrari in 2025, Lewis Hamilton reveals he underwent intense self-reflection over the winter. The seven-time champion says he has worked to rediscover his joy for racing and is excited by his involvement in developing the 2026 car, aiming for a major comeback with the Scuderia.
Lewis Hamilton says he spent the winter asking himself "uncomfortable questions" after a difficult first season with Ferrari, working to clear his mind and rediscover the joy of racing ahead of F1's new 2026 era. The seven-time champion, who failed to score a single podium in 2025, appears rejuvenated in pre-season testing, confident that a car developed with his input can lead a competitive turnaround for the Scuderia.
Why it matters:
Hamilton's high-profile move to Ferrari was one of the biggest stories in modern F1, carrying the weight of expectation that he could finally secure a record eighth title. His subsequent struggle to adapt and be outperformed by teammate Charles Leclerc was a major narrative of 2025. His public introspection and apparent renewed focus signal a critical personal and professional reset, which could be pivotal for both his legacy and Ferrari's championship aspirations under the new regulations.
The details:
- Hamilton's 2025 season with Ferrari was marked by adjustment difficulties. While Charles Leclerc secured six podiums, Hamilton scored none, finishing sixth in the standings with 156 points—86 points behind his teammate. His sole highlight was a Sprint race win in China.
- Over the winter, Ferrari made a significant personnel change, moving Hamilton's race engineer, Riccardo Adami, to another role within the company. His replacement has not yet been confirmed.
- In an interview, Hamilton revealed the depth of his self-analysis, asking himself questions like, "Am I doing enough? Can I be better? How should I change my methods?" He admitted he may have let the pressure and responsibility of driving for Ferrari affect his mindset last year.
- Hamilton emphasized a unified team approach with Leclerc, stating his goal is not to "divide the fans." He praised Leclerc as a "phenomenal driver" but highlighted his own deeper involvement with the 2026 car, which he has worked on for 14 months, claiming it has "a bit of my DNA in it."
- Despite Ferrari showing strong pace in Bahrain testing, Hamilton cautioned that true competitive order remains unclear, joking that even calls to former colleagues Toto Wolff and Zak Brown yield no secrets.
What's next:
The 2026 season represents a clean slate with new technical regulations, offering Hamilton and Ferrari a prime opportunity for redemption. Hamilton's renewed happiness and his claimed influence on the SF-26's development are positive signs, but they must translate into consistent performance on track.
- The central challenge remains converting potential into wins and, ultimately, a title fight. Hamilton must first consistently challenge and beat Leclerc within the team.
- His comments suggest a driver who has processed the disappointment of 2025 and is approaching the new mission with a clearer, more joyful perspective. The success of this mindset shift will be one of the key stories to follow as the 2026 championship begins.