Lewis Hamilton finally celebrated his first podium with Scuderia Ferrari last weekend, and the former 1996 Formula 1 World Champion Damon Hill has reinforced Jolyon Palmer’s observations, noting how the seven-time world champion appears completely rejuvenated in his new role with the Italian team.
After securing his 203rd career podium during the Chinese Grand Prix, Jolyon Palmer had praised Lewis Hamilton for displaying a noticeable “spring in his step” this season at Maranello. Hamilton’s first season with Ferrari fell short of the high expectations of the tifosi, who were eager to see the British driver immediately challenge for wins. However, the start of the 2026 season has highlighted a transformation in his approach and performance, suggesting that Hamilton has settled into his Ferrari machinery with confidence.
Former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher has speculated that Ferrari’s focus may no longer be entirely centered around Charles Leclerc, allowing Lewis Hamilton more freedom to influence the car’s development to suit his driving style. This shift seems to be playing a key role in the Briton’s resurgence.
Many in the Formula 1 paddock have taken note of Hamilton’s renewed energy and competitiveness, and Damon Hill has been among the most vocal.
Damon Hill Confirms Lewis Hamilton’s Fresh Approach at Ferrari
During a recent episode of the Stay on Track podcast, Damon Hill discussed the changes he has observed in Lewis Hamilton this year, echoing Jolyon Palmer’s comments about the seven-time world champion’s revitalization at Ferrari. Hill highlighted that the Brito’s demeanour and confidence have noticeably improved compared to last season, suggesting that the combination of new regulations and a car tailored to his style is helping him thrive.
Hill explained to co-host Johnny Herbert that Lewis Hamilton had been rejuvenated, especially with the current ground effect regulations, which he had initially struggled to adapt to. Hill reflected on the challenges Hamilton faced last season, noting that the British driver had previously struggled with the Venturi ground effect cars, as Adrian Newey had explained.
Johnny Herbert added that it was refreshing to see Lewis Hamilton performing at such a high level again, recalling that there had been a period when it seemed the 105-time Grand Prix winner had already reached his peak and was experiencing a dip in form. Damon Hill further elaborated that the Briton had taken time to rebuild his confidence and mental approach, and now, with a car that suits his driving style, he is thriving once again.
Hill emphasized that giving the seven-time F1 world champion a car capable of winning naturally brings out a different level of performance, and in 2026, Hamilton appears to be relishing the new regulations and the Ferrari package, allowing him to showcase his talents fully.
How Previous F1 Regulations Hampered Lewis Hamilton
The discussion also focused on the difficulties Lewis Hamilton experienced under previous Formula 1 regulations. Damon Hill highlighted that multiple changes in technical rules over the past 15 years—ranging from blown diffusers, double diffusers, venturi floors, hybrid power units versus naturally aspirated engines, and other major shifts—have impacted drivers differently. Some adapted quickly, while others struggled to find consistency.
Hill argued that Lewis Hamilton had been constrained by certain regulations, particularly with the ground effect Venturi cars, which did not complement his driving style. He noted that Hamilton was unable to extract the maximum performance from those cars, leading to visible frustrations on the track. However, with the current technical framework and Ferrari’s 2026 car, Hamilton has adapted remarkably well.
Johnny Herbert concluded by emphasizing that Hamilton’s ability to adjust to new formulas is a hallmark of his talent, and while last season was a struggle, this year he has adapted brilliantly to the updated regulations. The British driver’s combination of skill, experience, and now a car better aligned with his style is making him a genuine contender in the early 2026 championship battles alongside Charles Leclerc.
Damon Hill and Jolyon Palmer therefore agree that Lewis Hamilton’s early 2026 performances with Ferrari reflect a rejuvenated driver, fully exploiting the potential of both the current regulations and the Scuderia Ferrari machinery. For fans and analysts, Hamilton’s resurgence signals that the seven-time world champion remains a formidable force in Formula 1.
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