(Motorsport-Total.com) – Lewis Hamilton has a year of learning to forget behind him. His debut season at Ferrari in 2025 went anything but according to plan: not a single podium in the Grands Prix, the only bright spot was a victory in the sprint race in China. But with the major regulatory overhaul in 2026, everything is set to change for the now 41-year-old.
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Sky expert Martin Brundle is optimistic that Hamilton will manage the turnaround in Maranello. “I hope so – for Lewis and for Ferrari,” Brundle explains to Sky Sports F1. “As Formula 1 fans, we always want Ferrari to do well. And I would be happy if everything turns out well for Lewis.”
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According to Brundle, the Briton’s emotional state is the key to success. While Hamilton often struggled with settling in and the car in 2025, he now seems more settled. “He seems to be a bit happier,” Brundle observes. “A happy Lewis has always been – and not just at Ferrari – a fast Lewis.”
Especially the new technical rules for 2026 could play into Hamilton’s hands. Brundle trusts the veteran to make perfect use of the new tools and possibilities of the regulations. But the hurdle in his own stable remains high: “He has to beat Charles Leclerc in the other Ferrari, because he is also fully focused.”
Hamilton’s “DNA” in the new Ferrari
After Hamilton spent much of the past year adapting to the Scuderia’s processes, he is now deeply rooted in the team. His colleague Craig Slater points to the hard work the seven-time champion has invested over the last twelve months.
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“He said: ‘I put my DNA into this car,'” says Slater. While he still emphasized in 2025 that he first had to settle in, the relationships within the team have now matured. The big question remains: is he now reaping the rewards of this work?
Fight against youth: Can he achieve title number eight?
The idea of Hamilton seriously fighting for the crown again at 41 fascinates the paddock. “Lewis transcends Formula 1 like no other driver before or after him,” Brundle is certain.
The Ferrari design for 2026
However, mission “Number 8” will not be easy. Hamilton has to prevail against a generation of drivers, some of whom are only half his age. Brundle nevertheless sticks to his prediction: “It won’t be easy for him, but I am confident that a better season lies ahead for him.”
Ferrari seems to have worked innovatively over the winter and, according to Brundle, is in a better position than it has been for years – so the stage is set for the Hamilton comeback.
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