Lewis Hamilton’s first season with Scuderia Ferrari in 2025 proved to be a difficult introduction, with the relationship between the seven-time World Champion and the team far from smooth. Expectations were high when Hamilton joined F1’s most iconic team, as his move was seen as the perfect opportunity to reinvigorate his career after leaving Mercedes. However, the season highlighted deep struggles both on and off the track for the British driver.
The 40-year-old Lewis Hamilton’s only success in 2025 came in the F1 Sprint race in China, marking his sole top result for the season. For the first time in his 19-year Formula 1 career, Hamilton failed to secure a Grand Prix podium, underscoring the challenges he faced adapting to Ferrari’s car and operational methods. Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc dominated qualifying sessions, achieving seven podiums over the course of the season and finishing 77 points ahead of his teammate in the drivers’ standings.
Ferrari decided to shift focus towards the 2026 regulations, scaling back development on the SF-25. Upgrades introduced during the season, such as a revised rear suspension at Spa, failed to improve performance, leaving the team winless throughout the year. Lewis Hamilton also clashed with technical director Loic Serra, whom he had brought from Mercedes, over the direction of the SF-25’s development. The Briton advocated for ongoing improvements to the car, but Ferrari chose a different path, contributing to a steep decline in his results during the second half of the season, including three consecutive Q1 eliminations in the final races.
Riccardo Patrese urges Ferrari to give Hamilton a competitive car in 2026
Former F1 driver Riccardo Patrese stressed that Ferrari must provide Lewis Hamilton with a competitive car in 2026, warning that failure to do so could lead to the driver “falling apart.” Patrese pointed out that Hamilton’s struggles in 2025 were largely a result of machinery that was not up to his standard, noting that the Briton has broken numerous F1 records and deserves equipment capable of competing at the top.
Patrese highlighted that Charles Leclerc could challenge Max Verstappen if given equal machinery, emphasizing that Lewis Hamilton, as a driver who has won seven World Championships and arguably should have had an eighth title in Abu Dhabi 2021, must be equipped with a car capable of fighting for victories. Without such a car, Riccardo Patrese suggested, the Briton’s potential would be severely limited, regardless of his skill and experience.
Hamilton needs stronger team structure and changes behind the scenes
Beyond car performance, Lewis Hamilton must also see changes within Ferrari’s operational structure. In 2025, Lewis Hamilton struggled to integrate with the team, particularly because documents he provided outlining potential improvements were largely ignored. These frustrations compounded his on-track challenges and contributed to a disjointed season.
Looking ahead to 2026, Ferrari appear to be listening. Technical director Loic Serra has been allowed to hire two former Mercedes colleagues, creating a more familiar environment for Hamilton and potentially improving collaboration. However, additional changes are still necessary. One key issue is the relationship with race engineer Riccardo Adami, which was problematic throughout 2025 due to frequent miscommunication over the radio.
Rubens Barrichello has emphasized that Hamilton must resolve these issues with Adami “behind closed doors” to prevent further damage in 2026. Strengthening cohesion between Hamilton and his race engineer will be critical for maximizing performance and ensuring that the seven-time champion can capitalize on Ferrari’s upgraded 2026 package and new technical staff.
In summary, the 2026 Formula 1 season represents a pivotal moment for Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari. With the right car, improved team structure, and clearer communication channels, Lewis Hamilton has the potential to return to title contention, while Ferrari can finally leverage the experience and expertise of one of F1’s greatest drivers.
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