Lewis Hamilton has experienced a significant upturn in his Ferrari career during the 2026 Formula 1 season. The seven-time World Champion attributes this breakthrough primarily to enhanced collaboration within the team. This improved partnership follows a challenging 2025 season where Ferrari reportedly showed reluctance to fully integrate his guidance.
Hamilton revealed discussions with Ferrari leadership aimed at fostering a relationship of ‘allies rather than foes’. This realignment has enabled a more synergistic approach, which is now yielding results on track. The team’s performance in 2025 was underwhelming, marked by a winless campaign.
Ferrari chairman John Elkann publicly addressed the team’s struggles in November 2025, following a double retirement at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. Elkann urged both Hamilton and Charles Leclerc to ‘focus on driving, talk less’. Ferrari concluded the 2025 season fourth in the Constructors’ standings.
Hamilton’s direct input has been crucial in the development of the 2026 car, the SF-26. He specifically requested modifications to the front suspension and pushed for desired brake specifications. These components were tested on the simulator last year and are now integrated into the current car.
The SF-26, internally codenamed Project 678, represents Ferrari’s first car under the new 2026 regulations. It features significant design changes from its unsuccessful predecessor, the SF-25. The car was officially unveiled on January 23, 2026, with an initial shakedown at the Fiorano Circuit.
Ferrari ceased aerodynamic development on the SF-25 in April 2025 to concentrate on the SF-26. This strategic decision provided the team with a 15% advantage in wind tunnel time compared to the reigning Constructors’ Champion, McLaren.
The Scuderia has also introduced notable aerodynamic innovations for the 2026 season. During pre-season testing in Bahrain in February 2026, Ferrari debuted a novel ‘flow-turning device’ positioned behind the exhaust outlet. This element directs exhaust flow to the rear wing underside, enhancing downforce.
This design, which features a heat-resistant upper section, exploits specific allowances within the 2026 regulations. Ferrari also tested a ‘rotating rear wing’ that flips 180 degrees to reduce drag on straights. These innovations are now being observed and replicated by rival teams.
Hamilton secured his maiden Grand Prix victory for Ferrari on June 14, 2026, at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. This win ended a 40-race, 686-day drought for the British driver. He executed a three-stop strategy, which was aided by a Virtual Safety Car period.
Kimi Antonelli, then leading the championship, retired from the Barcelona race due to an engine failure. George Russell finished second, and Lando Norris third, completing an all-British podium.
More recently, Charles Leclerc secured Ferrari’s second victory of the 2026 season at the British Grand Prix on July 5, 2026, at Silverstone. Hamilton finished third in his home race.
As of July 11, 2026, Kimi Antonelli leads the Drivers’ Championship with 179 points. George Russell is second with 154 points, while Lewis Hamilton holds third position with 147 points. Ferrari is currently second in the Constructors’ Championship with 255 points, trailing Mercedes.
Hamilton’s aggressive driving style, characterized by late braking, car rotation, and effective tire management, is proving well-suited to the lighter and more agile 2026 machinery. This adaptation has allowed him to unlock the SF-26’s potential.
Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur stated on July 9, 2026, that it is not the appropriate time to discuss a new contract for Hamilton. Hamilton’s current agreement with Ferrari covers the 2025 and 2026 seasons, with an option for 2027.
