Lewis Hamilton has acknowledged Ferrari’s significant performance improvements in recent Formula 1 weekends. The Mercedes driver also accepted full responsibility for his disappointing fourth-place finish at the Belgian Grand Prix. Hamilton’s comments follow a period where Ferrari has demonstrated a notable step forward in their SF-26 car’s capabilities.
Ferrari’s resurgence has seen them close the gap to Mercedes and Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship. The team secured a victory at the British Grand Prix with Charles Leclerc and has consistently challenged for podium positions.
Hamilton noted the strategic decisions made by Ferrari, stating, ‘Yeah, definitely really encouraging. I think the team has been making great decisions with strategy.’ This marks a shift for Ferrari, which has faced criticism for its strategy calls in previous seasons.
The seven-time champion’s fourth place at Spa-Francorchamps was impacted by a heavy qualifying shunt and a five-second penalty. This penalty was issued for a collision with teammate George Russell on the opening lap of the race.
Russell was forced to pit for repairs after the incident at Les Combes, finishing outside the points. Hamilton’s car also sustained damage, affecting its balance throughout the race.
Hamilton attributed his compromised performance directly to his own errors. ‘I don’t count myself unlucky. I think about my mistake that I made yesterday [in qualifying],’ Hamilton stated. ‘So, I take full responsibility really for the fourth place I ended up getting because I damaged the car.’
He further explained the domino effect of his qualifying error. ‘Then when they rebuilt the car, they missed something on the suspension. The balance was completely different. So that meant I was probably a good couple of tenths, maybe three tenths slower than I should have been in qualifying.’
Mercedes has faced recurring power unit reliability issues throughout the 2026 season, specifically with its M17 power unit. These problems have affected both Hamilton and Kimi Antonelli, leading to retirements and grid penalties.
Despite these challenges, Mercedes still holds a significant advantage in the Constructors’ Championship over Ferrari. However, the gap has tightened considerably due to Ferrari’s recent form and Mercedes’ reliability concerns.
As of mid-July 2026, Max Verstappen leads the Drivers’ Championship. Kimi Antonelli is second, with Lewis Hamilton in third, and Charles Leclerc closely behind in fourth. The top four are separated by less than 30 points.
The Formula 1 season now moves to the Hungaroring for the Hungarian Grand Prix. This circuit is known for its tight, twisty layout and emphasis on high downforce, contrasting with the power-sensitive characteristics of Spa.
Hamilton expressed his determination for the upcoming event. ‘I need to come correct next week and make sure I deliver the way I know I can deliver in Budapest. We have to come and fight for that one.’
