Hamilton's second Ferrari season brings intrigue amid new F1 regulations
After a podium-less debut season at Ferrari in 2025, Lewis Hamilton is poised for a potential comeback in 2026. Former F1 driver Anthony Davidson believes the new technical regulations, which favor cars with more compliant handling, will perfectly suit Hamilton's driving style, making his performance a key storyline to watch.
Lewis Hamilton enters his second season with Ferrari with renewed hope after a difficult 2025, as former F1 driver Anthony Davidson suggests the new technical regulations could finally unlock his performance. The seven-time champion failed to score a single podium last year, but the radically changed 2026 cars, described as having "more movement," may better suit his driving style.
Why it matters:
Hamilton's struggle to adapt at Ferrari was one of the standout narratives of 2025, raising questions about his future competitiveness. His potential resurgence in 2026 is crucial not only for his legendary career but also for Ferrari's championship aspirations. A performing Hamilton could dramatically shift the team dynamic and the entire competitive order.
The details:
- A Difficult Debut: Hamilton's first season at Ferrari in 2025 was notably challenging, failing to secure a podium and leading to public self-criticism where he even suggested the team consider replacing him.
- Expert Analysis: Anthony Davidson, speaking to RacingNews365, expressed confidence that Hamilton will win races in 2026, calling his performance "one of the biggest intrigues" of the new season.
- Regulation Reset: The 2026 season introduces completely new technical regulations, which Davidson believes will benefit Hamilton. He stated the previous generation of "stiff, low, snappy, very violent" ground-effect cars did not suit him.
- Driving Style Fit: Davidson explained that Hamilton excels when a car has "more movement within the platform" and "more compliance," characteristics expected from the new rules. This could allow him to return to the driving "zone" where he is most effective.
What's next:
All eyes will be on Hamilton's integration with the new Ferrari challenger, Project 678, from the season opener in Melbourne. If the car's characteristics align with his preferences as predicted, it could mark a dramatic turnaround, re-establishing him as a regular front-runner and fulfilling the high expectations that accompanied his monumental move to Maranello.