From his podium at the Chinese Grand Prix to a full resurgence in red, the Lewis Hamilton story is reigniting debate among experts and opening up new scenarios within Ferrari.
The Chinese Grand Prix could represent a turning point in Lewis Hamilton’s season. His first podium with Ferrari was not just a sporting result, but a symbolic moment that has reignited enthusiasm around the seven-time world champion.
Speaking on the podcast Terruzzi Racconta, journalist Giorgio Terruzzi highlighted the narrative strength of what unfolded in Shanghai: “The scene on the podium was extraordinary. On the day of his first podium with Ferrari, Hamilton found himself alongside his former teammate, the driver who replaced him at Mercedes, and his former engineer.”
A convergence of storylines that made the moment even more meaningful for the British driver, who has managed to return to the spotlight after a difficult period.
“He’s coming back to being Hamilton”
According to Pino Allievi, the key factor is clear: Hamilton has rediscovered himself. “Hamilton has a great desire to return to being Hamilton,” he explained. “With this Formula 1, he can manage many things: he is no longer a driver with a knife between his teeth like Verstappen or Leclerc, but he can still fight on equal terms.”
An interesting comparison was made with football: “He’s like Modric—thanks to experience and intelligence, he can still make the difference.”
The current technical context, with a greater emphasis on energy management, appears to favor a more calculated driving style—perfect for an experienced driver like Hamilton.
A different—and more competitive—Ferrari
Stefano Nicoli also pointed out a crucial aspect: the atmosphere within the team. “He is much happier compared to last year. From his statements, you can tell that he is satisfied with the work of the team.”
This is far from a minor detail and could help explain the British driver’s improving performances. After a period in which he seemed somewhat “lost,” Lewis Hamilton now appears far more engaged and motivated.
While Hamilton’s resurgence is undoubtedly good news for Ferrari, it could also ignite an increasingly intense internal rivalry with Charles Leclerc. Terruzzi was clear: “They won’t have a polite season. They will come to blows.”
After the first signs of on-track battle already seen in China, the duel between Ferrari’s two drivers promises fireworks—and perhaps it is exactly what Formula 1 needed.
Lewis Hamilton’s performance in Shanghai therefore suggests that the 2026 regulations have played directly into his hands, rewarding his tactical maturity. As Ferrari continues to close the gap to the front-runners, the focus will inevitably shift from the car’s performance to the psychological battle between its two superstar drivers. Whether this rivalry pushes the team forward or creates a fracture remains to be seen, but for now, the “Old Lewis” is officially back.
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