Lewis Hamilton: "My DNA is in the new Ferrari"

Lewis Hamilton is entering the 2026 Formula 1 season with a renewed sense of purpose and confidence. As he begins his second year with Scuderia Ferrari, the seven-time world champion says he feels stronger than he has in years, both physically and mentally, as he becomes fully integrated into the Italian team. 

Progress and stability at Maranello 

Hamilton’s debut season with Ferrari in 2025 was a period of significant transition. After over a decade at Mercedes, he had to adapt to an entirely new culture and way of working. While that first year had its share of ups and downs, Hamilton believes the team is now much more stable. Work relationships are clearer, and the overall atmosphere within the factory is filled with positivity heading into the new season. 

A key change for 2026 is Hamilton’s new partnership on the pit wall. Following Riccardo Adami’s move to a role within the Ferrari Driver Academy, Hamilton will be working with a new race engineer. Despite these shifts, his belief in the project remains absolute. "My trust in this team is still one hundred percent," he stated, noting that the lessons learned in 2025 have paved the way for better collaboration. 

A car built for the champion 

One of the primary reasons for Hamilton’s optimism is his deep involvement in the development of the SF-26. Unlike the car he "inherited" upon his arrival last year, Hamilton has been an active participant in the simulation and design process for the new challenger. "There is a piece of my DNA in it, which makes me feel much more connected to it," he explained. 

Hamilton used the winter break to focus on a complete "rebuild" of himself, ensuring he is in peak condition for the challenges of the 2026 regulations. With a car that reflects his driving preferences and a team that is fully aligned behind him, the Briton is genuinely excited about the prospects for the year ahead. 

Replies (0)

Login to reply

AZ Azerbaijan Grand Prix

Local time 

AZAzerbaijan Grand Prix

Local time 

Test calendar

See full test schedule

World Championship standings 2026

Show full world champion standings

Related news

Give your opinion!

Will Bottas challenge Hamilton for the world championship in 2020?

Formula 1 Calendar - 2026

Date
Grand Prix
Circuit
-
Spain
-
Bahrain
-
Bahrain
6 - Mar 8
Australia
13 - Mar 15
China
27 - Mar 29
Japan
10 - Apr 12
Bahrain
17 - Apr 19
Saudi Arabia
1 - May 3
United States of America
22 - May 24
Canada
5 - Jun 7
Monaco
12 - Jun 14
Spain
See full schedule

Formula 1 Calendar - 2026

Date
Grand Prix & Circuit
6 - Mar 8
Australia Albert Park
13 - Mar 15
27 - Mar 29
10 - Apr 12
17 - Apr 19
Saudi Arabia Jeddah Street Circuit
1 - May 3
United States of America Miami International Autodrome
22 - May 24
5 - Jun 7
Monaco Monte Carlo
12 - Jun 14
See full schedule

Driver profile

  • Team Ferrari
  • Points 3,566
  • Podiums 133
  • Grand Prix 234
  • Country GB
  • Date of b. Jan 7 1985 (41)
  • Place of b. Tewin, GB
  • Weight 68 kg
  • Length 1.74 m
Show full profile

Team profile

Show full profile
show sidebar