Ferrari fully backs Lewis Hamilton as he prepares for redemption in 2026 F1 season
As the 2026 Formula 1 season approaches, Ferrari are reaffirming their full support for Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, following a challenging debut year with the Scuderia. After a first season at Maranello that failed to meet expectations, Hamilton is determined to bounce back and showcase why he remains one of the sport’s all-time greats.
At 41 years old, Lewis Hamilton finally realised a lifelong ambition by joining Ferrari in 2025. However, his maiden season with the Italian team proved to be far from the dream scenario many had anticipated. The SF-25’s technical limitations quickly became evident, leaving Hamilton frustrated as the car struggled with ride height inconsistencies and aerodynamic inefficiencies. Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur promptly shifted focus to the 2026 F1 regulations, halting further development on the 2025 car as early as April to prioritise the wind tunnel hours allocated for the next-generation challenger.
Even the only major upgrade Ferrari introduced in 2025—a rear suspension update—failed to resolve the SF-25’s persistent handling issues. The culmination of these technical setbacks saw Ferrari finish the season without a single Grand Prix victory, a first among F1’s top four teams, and left Lewis Hamilton without a podium in any race for the first time in his entire career. Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc managed to secure seven podium finishes for the team, highlighting the stark contrast between the two drivers’ fortunes.
Ferrari aims to correct misconceptions about Lewis Hamilton in Maranello
Italian media outlets report that Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton have agreed on a united vision for the 2026 campaign, focused on dispelling the myths and narratives that emerged during his difficult 2025 season. There has been speculation about Hamilton’s potential retirement from Formula 1 at the end of 2026, given the challenges he faced in his debut year at Ferrari, but the Scuderia are committed to supporting him fully.
Part of Ferrari’s effort this winter is to correct a widely circulated but unfounded narrative questioning Hamilton’s behaviour behind the scenes in Maranello. Claims that Hamilton avoids his responsibilities or is disengaged in team operations are considered false and largely amplified by the media hype surrounding Haas rookie Oliver Bearman, whose impressive debut in 2025 fueled speculation about the future Ferrari seat.
Bearman’s outstanding performance with Haas during his first season of a two-year loan from Ferrari positioned him as a potential successor to Lewis Hamilton, but the Scuderia have made it clear there is no immediate rush to make such a move. The focus remains squarely on enabling Lewis Hamilton to extract the maximum performance from the Ferrari car and reassert his dominance on the track.
Debunking simulator rumours and behind-the-scenes myths
In December, former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher suggested that Lewis Hamilton rarely used Ferrari’s simulator, implying that Charles Leclerc carried the lion’s share of development work. Ferrari insiders strongly reject this claim, emphasising that Hamilton fully engages with simulator duties and contributes actively to all aspects of car preparation. These rumours are seen as exaggerations that ignore the Briton’s professional commitment and meticulous approach to race preparation.
The presence of Oliver Bearman in Ferrari’s long-term plans should not be interpreted as a threat to Hamilton’s position. While Ollie Bearman’s potential future at Maranello is noted, the team’s immediate priority is to support Lewis Hamilton in rediscovering his competitive edge with the SF-26 under the new 2026 F1 regulations. Ferrari engineers are reportedly developing three different sidepod concepts for the early stages of the season, indicating a proactive approach to innovation and adaptability.
Looking ahead: a critical season for Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari
The 2026 campaign represents a pivotal moment for both Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari. If the SF-26 proves competitive, Lewis Hamilton could restore his reputation and demonstrate that he remains capable of challenging for wins and podiums even after turning 41 in early January. Conversely, a car that underperforms again could intensify questions about his long-term future in Formula 1, with the Briton unlikely to endure repeated seasons of frustration.
Ferrari’s public commitment to the British driver signals that the Scuderia value his experience, talent, and influence within the team, and they are prepared to give him the tools and environment to succeed. For fans and commentators alike, the upcoming season promises drama, high stakes, and the opportunity to witness Lewis Hamilton’s resilience as he seeks to make 2026 a year of redemption in the Ferrari red.
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