Lewis Hamilton has revealed he deliberately disregarded Ferrari’s simulator-recommended setup for the British Grand Prix. His decision to follow his own instincts ultimately proved correct, with teammate Charles Leclerc later adopting Hamilton’s setup direction. This contributed to Ferrari’s strongest weekend of the 2026 season.
The Silverstone event saw Leclerc secure his first victory of the year, while Hamilton fought back to finish third. Hamilton’s initial setup choice, made with his engineers, diverged significantly from the simulator’s guidance.
Leclerc initially followed the simulator’s recommendation for his SF-26. However, data gathered throughout the weekend led Ferrari to align Leclerc’s car with Hamilton’s preferred setup philosophy.
Leclerc converted pole-challenging pace into an early lead, making a decisive move on Andrea Kimi Antonelli at the start. He briefly lost the position during the pit stop cycle but reclaimed the net lead once Antonelli made his stop.
Antonelli, driving for Mercedes, rapidly closed the gap on fresher tyres. However, he suffered a left front wheel shield issue on Lap 41, allowing Leclerc to extend his lead and secure Ferrari’s 250th Formula 1 World Championship victory.
Hamilton’s afternoon was more complex. Running second in the early stages, he received a five-second time penalty for a false start, served during his first pit stop.
This penalty dropped him down the order, forcing him to battle George Russell and Max Verstappen. Hamilton recovered to second place by overtaking Verstappen.
A late Safety Car, triggered by Verstappen spinning off on Lap 48, prompted Ferrari to pit Hamilton for fresh soft tyres. This strategic call relegated him to third, as Russell stayed out and gained track position.
Hamilton’s chosen setup, which involved reducing front wing load, aimed for greater rear stability. However, this compromise resulted in pronounced understeer and increased front tyre wear during the race.
He acknowledged the handling challenges, which limited his ability to consistently match Leclerc’s pace. Hamilton took responsibility for this setup decision alongside his engineering team.
Despite the personal setback, Hamilton left Silverstone encouraged by Ferrari’s progress in understanding the SF-26’s setup. He believes the outcome validates the development direction he has advocated since joining the team.
The SF-26, Ferrari’s 2026 challenger, was designed under new regulations focusing on weight reduction and efficiency. It features push-rod suspension and a new hybrid power unit.
Ferrari has been refining the car’s balance throughout the season, with the SF-26 achieving two Grand Prix victories this year. Leclerc’s win marked a significant breakthrough for the team.
Hamilton stressed that significant work remains for Ferrari to consistently challenge at the front. The team now looks ahead to the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps.
