Lewis Hamilton believes Ferrari can be strong at the 2026 Hungarian Grand Prix if the team finds the ideal SF-26 set-up and avoids mistakes, while Charles Leclerc has adopted a more cautious approach ahead of the Budapest weekend. Although the Hungaroring should theoretically suit the Ferrari better, Charles Leclerc insists its victory prospects will only become clear once the action begins.
The Formula 1 season continues at a relentless pace. Shortly after completing the Belgian round at Spa-Francorchamps, attention has already shifted to the Hungarian Grand Prix, the 11th race of the campaign and another important opportunity for Ferrari.
Ferrari’s Hungarian GP opportunity at the Hungaroring
As tradition dictates, Formula 1 will race at the technical and twisting Hungaroring near Budapest. The weekend could prove strategically significant for Ferrari, which will attempt to exploit a layout that rewards strong aerodynamic load and could complement the SF-26’s strength through slower corners.
Ferrari will be aiming to return to the top step of the podium after its recent victories in Barcelona and at Silverstone. Mercedes appear to be the leading favourites on paper, however, while McLaren and Red Bull are also expected to join the Maranello team in the fight at the front.
Lewis Hamilton expects Ferrari to be strong in Hungary
Lewis Hamilton heads to Hungary feeling particularly confident and motivated. The seven-time world champion highlighted the Ferrari’s potential around the Hungaroring, although he stressed that an ideal set-up and mistake-free execution would be essential.
“I think Ferrari will be strong in Hungary. If we find the ideal set-up and don’t make mistakes, then I think we can get where we deserve to be,” Lewis Hamilton said. “I think it is really great to see the performances we are producing. We are constantly improving the car. We have more updates in the pipeline to try to close that gap.”
Lewis Hamilton firmly believes Ferrari can secure an important result in Budapest. He is encouraged by the car’s consistent progress and has confirmed that further technical developments are being prepared, with Ferrari also expected to introduce its delayed SF-26 rear-wing update in Hungary.
The British driver’s confidence carries additional weight at a circuit where he has enjoyed considerable success. His remarkable Hungarian Grand Prix record provides another reason for Ferrari supporters to approach the weekend with optimism.
Charles Leclerc warns Ferrari against excessive confidence
Charles Leclerc has taken a more cautious and realistic position, avoiding bold predictions and concentrating instead on the work Ferrari must complete throughout the weekend.
“I don’t know whether we will be ready to fight for victory; we will only find out over the course of the weekend,” Charles Leclerc said. “I remember very well that there was a lot of confidence before Monaco, and then we know how things went. It is better to keep our feet firmly on the ground and work in the best possible way.”
“Over the last few weekends, we have always maximised our package. I have no expectations, also because everyone will bring major upgrades.”
Charles Leclerc’s caution is influenced by Ferrari’s experience in Monaco, where significant optimism before the event preceded a disappointing performance. The Monegasque therefore wants the team to remain grounded and continue extracting everything from its available package rather than setting premature targets. He has already explained in greater detail why Ferrari cannot assume the Hungaroring will automatically favour the SF-26.
That approach may be particularly important because Ferrari’s direct rivals are not standing still. Red Bull and McLaren are among the teams expected to introduce significant developments in Budapest, adding another unknown to a Hungarian Grand Prix weekend that looks promising for Ferrari but remains far from predictable.
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