Lewis Hamilton faced a challenging season in 2025, marked by his move to Ferrari which did not go as planned. Despite struggling with the SF-25, a win in the Chinese Grand Prix sprint gave hope but ultimately led to a season without a podium finish, a first in his 18-year career. With the transition away from ground-effect cars, Hamilton now looks to bounce back in the upcoming races.
The new cars for 2026 present a fresh start for Hamilton at Ferrari. While he expressed less enthusiasm for the energy management aspect of the cars, he finds them more fun to drive mechanically. Being comfortable with the new car could set the stage for a stronger performance in his second year with the team. However, Charles Leclerc poses a tough competition for Hamilton in the upcoming races.
Looking ahead, Hamilton’s preference for a stable car under braking may pose challenges with the new machine’s characteristics. The transition to electric motor harvesting and the car’s handling under deceleration might not align with his strengths, indicating a need for adjustment to the new formula.
Having joined a list of world champions at Ferrari, including Alonso and Vettel, Hamilton faces a critical moment in his career with the team. The first season may have been disappointing, but Hamilton’s ability to reset and perform is well-documented. As he adapts to the new cars, the question remains if he can outpace Leclerc over the season and add to his illustrious career with Ferrari.
To distinguish drivers’ performance, a scoring system inspired by the F1 game evaluates drivers based on experience, racecraft, consistency, and pace. These factors contribute to an overall rating that emphasizes a driver’s speed on the track.
In conclusion, Hamilton’s journey with Ferrari is at a crucial juncture as he navigates the challenges of the new cars and aims to compete against Leclerc. With his experience and determination, Hamilton seeks to turn his fortunes around and secure success in the upcoming races.
