Martin Brundle backs Lewis Hamilton for Ferrari title success in 2026 F1 season amid rising competition

Former Formula 1 driver and respected Sky Sports analyst Martin Brundle has expressed strong confidence that Lewis Hamilton remains a genuine contender for race wins and even a world championship with Ferrari. Despite the challenges of recent seasons, Brundle believes the seven-time world champion still possesses the ability to fight at the very front of Formula 1 in the 2026 campaign.

Lewis Hamilton made the high-profile move to Ferrari in 2025, entering the final phase of the previous technical regulations. His debut season at Maranello proved difficult, as adaptation to a new environment and car philosophy took time. Ferrari ultimately finished fourth in the Constructors’ Championship, a result that raised questions about their competitiveness during that transitional period.

However, the situation has shifted significantly in the 2026 Formula 1 season. Ferrari has emerged as a much stronger force, currently sitting second in the Constructors’ standings. In the Drivers’ Championship, Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton are running close together in third and fourth positions, reflecting a far more competitive package capable of consistently challenging at the front of the grid.

Martin Brundle highlights Lewis Hamilton’s improved performance in new F1 regulations

According to Martin Brundle, one of the key reasons behind Lewis Hamilton’s resurgence is the change in technical regulations. The former driver explained that the current generation of Formula 1 cars appears to suit Lewis Hamilton’s driving style more naturally compared to the previous ground-effect era, which often proved more physically demanding and less aligned with his preferences.

Martin Brundle noted that early doubts surrounding Lewis Hamilton’s adaptation at Ferrari during 2025 are now being replaced by a more optimistic outlook. With Ferrari showing stronger form and greater consistency, the Sky Sports F1 expert believes Lewis Hamilton is once again in a position where victories are realistic targets rather than distant ambitions.

He also emphasized that the 2026 season remains long and full of development opportunities, meaning performance levels could still evolve significantly. In this context, both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc remain firmly involved in the championship battle, with Ferrari positioned as a genuine contender for race wins and potentially higher honours if development continues in the right direction.

Brundle confident Lewis Hamilton can still fight for the championship

Speaking on Sky Sports F1, Martin Brundle explained that Lewis Hamilton appears noticeably more comfortable and satisfied within the Ferrari environment compared to previous seasons. He suggested that the competitiveness of the current Ferrari package has played an important role in improving Lewis Hamilton’s confidence and overall performance level.

Martin Brundle also pointed out that if Lewis Hamilton is to win a world championship with Ferrari, he will need to consistently outperform his teammate Charles Leclerc, who remains a benchmark driver within the team. According to Brundle, internal competition at Ferrari will be a decisive factor in determining championship success.

He further added that Lewis Hamilton is still fully capable of capitalizing on any opportunity that arises during the season. In Brundle’s view, even a small window of competitiveness could be enough for Lewis Hamilton to secure victories, provided the Ferrari package continues to improve and remain within striking distance of the leading teams.

F1 2026 title fight remains wide open, says Martin Brundle

Looking ahead to the Miami Grand Prix, the fourth round of the season, the 66-year-old Briton stressed that the Formula 1 championship battle remains completely open. With Kimi Antonelli currently leading the standings ahead of George Russell, the early stages of the season have already shown a highly competitive and unpredictable field.

Martin Brundle highlighted that the introduction of a Sprint weekend in Miami adds another layer of complexity, with additional points available across both the Sprint and main race. He suggested that these opportunities could significantly influence the championship picture over time.

He also emphasized that ongoing development and upgrades throughout the season will likely cause performance shifts between teams. As a result, Brundle believes that multiple teams remain in contention, with up to four top teams and several drivers still capable of winning races and potentially fighting for the championship.

In conclusion, Martin Brundle stated that the 2026 Formula 1 title fight is far from decided, and that Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, and their rivals all remain firmly in the hunt as the season continues to unfold.