Former McLaren engineer Marc Priestley believes that Ferrari have unlocked a “brand new” version of Lewis Hamilton following his performance at the 2026 Australian Grand Prix. The seven-time world champion demonstrated renewed confidence and adaptability, suggesting that the SF-26 may finally suit him far better than previous ground-effect-era cars.
Lewis Hamilton recovered from a challenging P7 on the grid to finish fourth, helping Ferrari secure a strong start to the 2026 Formula 1 season. Although Charles Leclerc finished ahead of Hamilton to claim his eighth podium since joining Ferrari alongside Hamilton, the two drivers crossed the chequered flag separated by less than a second, highlighting how closely matched they are in pace.
Hamilton’s radio communications during the race reflected a far more positive mindset compared to last season, with team morale seemingly lifted by the car’s performance. While Juan Pablo Montoya criticized Ferrari’s strategic decision not to pit under the first virtual safety car—a move that may have cost Lewis Hamilton a higher finishing position—Priestley was deeply impressed with Hamilton’s demeanor and overall pace throughout the weekend.
Marc Priestley sees Lewis Hamilton more upbeat and confident than ever
Speaking on the Chequered Flag Podcast, Marc Priestley highlighted that the Briton’s attitude at the Albert Park circuit was a key takeaway from the first race of the season. He suggested that Lewis Hamilton appears to be both mentally and emotionally rejuvenated, which could translate into podium finishes soon.
Priestley explained that, despite finishing behind Charles Leclerc, Lewis Hamilton frequently led Ferrari in terms of lap pace and showed consistency throughout the race. He noted that this type of car, with the new 2026 regulations, appears far more compatible with the seven-time Formula 1 world champion’s driving style than the previous ground-effect designs that caused him difficulty during his last seasons at Mercedes and Ferrari. Priestley speculated that the momentum in Formula 1 may now be swinging back in Lewis Hamilton’s favor.
Lewis Hamilton’s emotional state remains a decisive factor
Priestley, who worked closely with Lewis Hamilton during the early stages of his career at McLaren, stressed the importance of a driver’s emotional wellbeing for performance. Reflecting on Hamilton’s early years, including his first World Championship in 2008, Priestley observed that the Briton’s mindset often had a bigger impact on race outcomes than technical changes to the car.
He recounted that personal issues, such as his relationship with Nicole Scherzinger, directly influenced Lewis Hamilton’s performance, demonstrating that emotional stability can be as crucial as mechanical improvements. This experience underscores why Lewis Hamilton’s renewed positivity in 2026, reinforced by the competitiveness of the SF-26, could have a direct impact on his ability to challenge for wins.
Ferrari’s SF-26 gives Hamilton a real chance to challenge
Lewis Hamilton’s improved mood is likely linked to the Maranello team’s progress during the winter testing and the enhanced race pace of the SF-26. Damon Hill also highlighted that Lewis Hamilton appeared “more racy” and competitive in Australia, a sentiment echoed by many fans eager to see the seven-time world champion back in contention for victories.
Looking ahead to the Chinese Grand Prix, Ferrari will need to fine-tune their strategic calls, especially with another Sprint Race format on the calendar. Returning to Shanghai, where Hamilton claimed his only Ferrari win last season, provides an ideal opportunity for him to replicate that success and continue building momentum in 2026.
With Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton pushing each other closely at the front of the field, and the SF-26 performing strongly, Ferrari could be well-positioned to challenge Mercedes and Red Bull throughout the early part of the 2026 season.
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