Lewis Hamilton Expresses Concerns Over 2026 F1 Cars, Hopes for Fresh Start
Lewis Hamilton has expressed strong disapproval of current F1 cars, calling the ground-effect era 'the worst' he's driven. Looking ahead to the 2026 regulations, the future Ferrari driver is concerned fans 'won't like' the new cars, citing less downforce and increased torque as potential issues, especially in wet conditions. He hopes the changes will ultimately lead to better racing and overtaking.
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has voiced significant dissatisfaction with the current generation of Formula 1 cars, openly stating his lack of enjoyment over the past four years. As F1 gears up for substantial regulatory changes in 2026, Hamilton, who will be joining Ferrari, is cautious about the future, suggesting fans might not like what's to come, despite the promise of a fresh challenge.
Why it matters:
Lewis Hamilton's frank criticism highlights the challenges and frustrations drivers have faced with the current ground-effect cars, which were introduced in 2022. His move to Ferrari in 2025 and the subsequent 2026 regulation overhaul represent a critical juncture for both the driver and the sport. His opinions, coming from one of F1's most decorated figures, carry significant weight and offer a glimpse into the potential difficulties ahead, especially concerning fan enjoyment and the racing spectacle.
The details:
- Unenjoyable Era: Hamilton unequivocally stated he will 'miss nothing' about the current ground-effect cars, calling this era 'probably the worst one' he's experienced.
- Past Preferences: He fondly recalled the 2017 cars, describing them as 'bigger, wider... beefier and had more downforce,' offering a more rewarding driving experience.
- 2026 Regulations: The upcoming changes include reduced downforce, a vastly different powertrain, and the introduction of active aerodynamics.
- Simulator Impressions: Having started simulator work with Ferrari for the 2026 car, Hamilton admitted it 'feels so much different' and expressed concern that fans 'won't like it.'
- Driving Challenges: He anticipates that the new cars, with less downforce and more torque, will be 'very, very, very tough' to drive, particularly in the rain.
- Visible Energy Management: Hamilton expects a more visible role for drivers in managing energy and hybrid deployment, including 'downshifting on the straight and different boost parameters.' He acknowledged this presents a 'massive challenge' for all.
What's next:
While Hamilton is apprehensive, he also sees the 2026 regulations as a significant challenge and an opportunity for the sport to evolve. The uncertainty surrounding the fan experience and the on-track spectacle will be a key talking point as more details emerge and teams begin to test the new designs. His hope remains that the changes will ultimately lead to incredible overtaking and an improved racing product, even if the initial adjustment period is steep for both drivers and viewers.