Lewis Hamilton Calls First Ferrari Year 'Draining,' Vows Renewal in Birthday Post

Lewis Hamilton marked his 41st birthday with a candid social media post, reflecting on a "very draining year" during his first season with Ferrari. The seven-time champion expressed gratitude for the break to recharge with family and signaled a strong desire for personal change and renewal. His message serves as both a look back at a difficult 2025 campaign and a forward-looking statement of intent as he prepares for the 2026 season.

Why it matters:

• Hamilton's high-profile move to Ferrari was one of the biggest stories in F1, but his first season fell dramatically short of championship contention.
• His public acknowledgment of a "draining" year and call for "change" offers a rare glimpse into the mental fortitude required to rebound from a high-pressure disappointment.
• The post reinforces his deep connection with his fanbase, whose support he openly credits for helping him navigate the challenges, a key element of his resilience.

The details:

• Hamilton's maiden campaign with the Scuderia was a struggle, resulting in no race podiums and his only victory coming in the Sprint race in China.
• In his message, he stressed the importance of taking time to "disconnect, recharge and find a bit of inner peace" after a relentless season.
• He framed the new year as the "Year of the Horse," viewing it as a symbolic opportunity for "starting new routines, leaving behind unwanted patterns and working on growth."
• The seven-time world champion concluded with a powerful thank you to his supporters, recalling their advice to "be you and never forget who you are," a mantra he pledged to carry forward.

What's next:

Hamilton's reflective message sets the stage for a pivotal 2026 season. With a new set of F1 regulations promising to shake up the grid, he and Ferrari have a genuine chance to reset and challenge for top honors. His focus on personal renewal suggests he is actively working to put the disappointments of 2025 behind him, aiming to attack the upcoming season with a refreshed mindset and finally deliver on the immense hype that surrounded his move to Maranello.