Lewis Hamilton has shared his thoughts on what will be the defining factor of the 2026 Formula 1 season after taking the new Ferrari SF-26 for a run on the Fiorano track. The seven-time world champion faces the challenge of bouncing back after a very difficult 2025 season, both for Ferrari and for himself. According to the British driver, the SF-26 represents the beginning of a new era, and the element that will make the difference this year revolves around energy management and driver input.
First laps at Fiorano
Hamilton was the first to take the car out for the limited laps allowed during the shakedown at Fiorano. Despite the very cold track conditions, the car ran flawlessly, a promising start for Ferrari. The aggressive and innovative technical solutions showcased the significant input of Technical Director Loïc Serra, highlighting the team’s technical ambition and fresh approach. Charles Leclerc then took over for his runs, completing the program. After some waves to the Tifosi, the SF-26 was prepared for transfer to Barcelona, where the private tests will allow the Ferrari team to gather essential data on the new Power Unit and confirm the baseline technical choices for the car. According to Lewis Hamilton, there is one key factor that will dominate the season.
Hamilton: “The driver’s role will be central in managing the car”
“The 2026 season presents an enormous challenge for everyone: it is probably the biggest regulatory change I have experienced in my career,” the Briton explained. “When you enter a new era like this, everything revolves around development, the ability to grow as a team, and to do so in the same direction. From a driver’s perspective, it has been particularly fascinating to be involved from the very beginning in the development process of such a different car, working closely with the engineers to define a shared technical direction. It will be an extremely important year technically, where the role of the driver will be central in managing energy, the new systems, and contributing to understanding the car. Initially, you have to trust your instinct, and then the data.”
New aerodynamics and energy distribution
The 2026 Ferrari introduces many differences, particularly in aerodynamics and in the activation of the front and rear wing flaps. The hybrid Power Unit distributes power approximately equally between the electric and internal combustion systems, placing the driver at the center of performance. As Hamilton noted, the driver must adapt quickly and manage energy efficiently. He also shared some thoughts on how overtaking might work under the new rules: “The ability to lower the front wing reduces drag on straights and increases speed. It will be interesting to see how it works when attempting overtakes. Essentially, it is an evolution of the old DRS system, which we had become used to.”
A thank you to the Tifosi
Hamilton also expressed his gratitude to the fans: “It is one of the aspects I love most about being a Ferrari driver. I remember my first day here at Fiorano last year, when I saw a sea of red. It is a huge honor, and it happens here as it does at all the other circuits around the world where we race. Their support is incredibly important, not only for us drivers but for every single member of the team. Without them, we couldn’t do what we are doing, and I really hope that, with their support and the commitment of everyone, we can have a strong season. This is the dream.”
With the SF-26 now heading to Barcelona for the first official tests, and then onto Bahrain, the focus is fully on preparation. Fans will be watching closely, hoping that 2026 brings better fortune for Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari, and that the new car can once again put the Prancing Horse back at the top of the Formula 1 grid.
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