Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari contract

Live UpdatesLast updated MAR 15
SUMMARY

Lewis Hamilton is confirmed to join Ferrari in 2025 on a multi-year contract, expected to extend through at least the end of the 2026 season, with potential options for an extension into 2027 or 2028. As of March 14, 2026, Hamilton finished fourth in the opening race of the 2026 season in Australia and secured a third-place finish in the 2026 Chinese Grand Prix sprint race. Hamilton is optimistic about Ferrari's competitiveness in the 2026 Formula 1 season, believing the new regulations will benefit his driving style, despite Mercedes' dominant performance early in the season. He has intensified his winter training and is "still hungry" and "focused on the dream" of winning an eighth world championship. A RacingNews365 poll suggests Hamilton is a favorite for the 2026 drivers' championship, securing 23.8% of the vote.

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2026

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Lewis Hamilton is optimistic that Ferrari will be a strong contender in the 2026 Formula 1 season, believing the upcoming regulation changes will benefit his driving style. He also suggested that Mercedes' strong qualifying pace might be attributed to an enhanced engine mode. Toto Wolff humorously commented on seeing Hamilton in a Ferrari.

via Motorsport.com

Lewis Hamilton is confirmed to join Ferrari in 2025 on a multi-year contract, expected to extend through at least the end of the 2026 season. In the opening race of the 2026 season in Australia, Hamilton finished fourth, with Charles Leclerc securing third place. Jacques Villeneuve noted Hamilton's improved comfort and performance with the 2026 Ferrari car compared to his 2025 season.

via formula1.com

Lewis Hamilton is reportedly set to remain with Ferrari until at least the end of the 2026 season, with potential options for an extension into 2027 or 2028. Having joined Ferrari in 2025, Hamilton is aiming for a stronger performance in 2026, especially with the new car regulations. Mercedes has demonstrated dominant performance early in the 2026 season, securing front-row lockouts and winning opening races with drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli.

via racingnews365.com·planetf1.com·formula1.com

Lewis Hamilton achieved a third-place finish in the 2026 Chinese Grand Prix sprint race, expressing happiness with the SF-26 car. He described the debut of Ferrari's new rear wing, nicknamed the 'Macarena,' as 'a little bit premature' and noted a persistent power deficit on the straights compared to Mercedes.

via gpfans.com

Lewis Hamilton revealed he has asked himself "uncomfortable questions" over the winter break to identify necessary changes for the 2026 F1 season with Ferrari, aiming to rediscover joy and clear his mind after a challenging 2025 debut. He has vowed to give "no holding back" in his second season, expressing he is "still hungry" and "focused on the dream" of winning an eighth world championship. Hamilton also confirmed he will have a new race engineer for 2026, with Riccardo Adami moving to another area of the company.

via planetf1.com

A RacingNews365 poll suggests Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton are the favorites for the 2026 drivers' championship, with Hamilton securing 23.8% of the vote. This comes despite Hamilton's challenging 2025 debut season with Ferrari, where he was outscored by Charles Leclerc. Hamilton appears more comfortable with the 2026 Ferrari car, which he helped develop over the winter.

via RacingNews365

Pre-season testing for the 2026 Formula 1 season has concluded with Ferrari showing promising signs, including rapid starts and Charles Leclerc setting the fastest lap. Lewis Hamilton has expressed optimism about his training intensity for the upcoming season, and Ferrari's innovative rear wing update is noted as potentially increasing top speeds.

via gpfans.com

Lewis Hamilton is optimistic about Ferrari's competitiveness in the 2026 Formula 1 season, believing they can challenge Mercedes. He feels the new regulations suit his driving style and is "fired up" for the upcoming races. Mercedes has confirmed Kimi Antonelli will partner George Russell in 2026, marking the end of Hamilton's partnership with Mercedes.

via theguardian.com

F1 pundit Will Buxton suggests the 2026 season could be the 'beginning of the end' for Lewis Hamilton if his performance with Ferrari does not improve, following a difficult 2025 debut. This contrasts with Martin Brundle's continued confidence that Hamilton, despite being 41, will be a strong championship contender, noting that a 'happy Lewis has always been a fast Lewis'.

via GPFans·Crash.net·formula1.com

Lewis Hamilton has intensified his winter training for the 2026 F1 season, vowing to "show up stronger than ever" after a difficult 2025 debut with Ferrari. He shared details of his rigorous regimen, including lifting, cardio, and Pilates, on social media, aiming to be more competitive with the new regulations and car. Hamilton has issued a warning to rivals, signaling his strong intent for the upcoming season.

via Planet Sport·RacingNews365·planetf1.com

Martin Brundle is confident Lewis Hamilton will contend for the championship in the 2026 Formula 1 season. Brundle believes a re-energized Hamilton, even at 41, will be competitive and adept at using the new regulations. Hamilton endured a difficult debut season with Ferrari in 2025, failing to finish on the podium.

via planetf1.com·autosport.com·racingnews365.com

Carlos Sainz has dismissed Lewis Hamilton's views on the new 2026 Formula 1 cars, stating Hamilton is mistaken about the "degree" needed to understand them. Former driver Anthony Davidson believes the new regulations will align better with Hamilton's driving style, potentially leading to a more enjoyable second season with Ferrari. F1 TV presenter Will Buxton predicts Ferrari could be strong contenders in 2026.

via gpone.com·RacingNews365·Crash.net

Carlos Sainz has dismissed Lewis Hamilton's criticisms regarding the new 2026 Formula 1 cars and regulations. Hamilton had suggested a "degree" was needed to understand the new machinery, a view Sainz, who was replaced by Hamilton at Ferrari, stated he does not share.

via GPFans·formula1.com

Lewis Hamilton faces a critical 2026 season with Ferrari, needing significant improvement after a challenging 2025 debut year. Reports suggest Ferrari may not renew his contract beyond 2027, and a recent change in his race engineer adds to the pressure. Hamilton has been involved in simulator development for the new cars and is reportedly more comfortable, aiming to turn around his difficult start with the team.

via The Race·Motorsport.com·youtube.com

Lewis Hamilton reflected on his first year with Ferrari on LinkedIn, emphasizing the impact of technology and AI and encouraging adaptation and learning. He stated, "one year ago, I began a new chapter with Scuderia Ferrari HP." Hamilton advised to "stay curious" and explore unconventional paths, highlighting evolving leadership.

via RacingNews365

Lewis Hamilton has vowed he is "not going anywhere" and expressed excitement for the 2026 F1 season, stating he has a "refreshed" mindset after a challenging debut year with Ferrari. He dismissed retirement talk, urging supporters to remain loyal as he begins his second season with the team. Alex Albon believes the new 2026 regulations could significantly benefit Hamilton.

via Formula 1·Crash.net·Planet F1

Mercedes has introduced a significant upgrade package for the final 2026 Formula 1 pre-season test in Bahrain, featuring revised aerodynamics on the W17 car. The team also digitally launched its 2026 season, unveiling the new W17 E PERFORMANCE car with an all-new hybrid Power Unit designed for the upcoming regulations.

via The Race·Formula 1

Ferrari F1 boss Fred Vasseur has requested "clarity" from the FIA regarding the 2026 season's regulations, citing concerns over "grey areas" and differing interpretations. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton's exceptional performance off the line during Bahrain testing has sparked speculation about a potential advantage for Ferrari. This rapid start is attributed to the team's smaller turbo, which allows for shorter engine revving times under the new 2026 start procedures.

via GPFans.com·PlanetF1·Crash.net

Ferrari has unveiled a radical new rear wing design for the SF-26 car during pre-season testing in Bahrain. This innovative design features an upper flap that flips 180 degrees when opened, a unique application of the 2026 regulations' active aerodynamics. The team is testing this concept, which aims to create lift and reduce drag, potentially offering a significant performance advantage.

via Motorsport.com·Gpone.com

Lewis Hamilton has expressed that his "DNA is in the new Ferrari SF-26" and that he is in the best place he has been in for a long time. This sentiment comes after positive pre-season testing results, indicating a strong personal connection and integration with his new team.

via Formula1.com·Crash.net·The Guardian·Planet F1·GPToday.net

Lewis Hamilton has stated that the new start procedure for the 2026 Formula 1 season, which involves higher engine revs to spool the turbocharger, is "not dangerous." He described it as simply different and longer than previous years, acknowledging the possibility of anti-stalling. Additionally, Hamilton expressed his satisfaction with the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya remaining on the 2026 F1 calendar, commenting "Works for me."

via gpblog.com·motorsport.com

Former teammate Jenson Button believes Lewis Hamilton has a "perfect opportunity" to turn his season around with Ferrari in 2026. Meanwhile, Rob Smedley has cautioned Hamilton's interim race engineer, Carlo Santi, about the demands of their partnership. Reports also suggest rivals Mercedes and Red Bull may face fuel homologation delays for the upcoming season.

via qradio.com·planetf1.com·planetf1.com

Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari demonstrated strong lap times and reliability during pre-season testing in Bahrain, positioning them as potential title contenders for the 2026 season. Technical experts suggest there is still room for further upgrades to the car.

via gpfans.com

Lewis Hamilton has described his pre-season testing experience in Bahrain as a "20-year low" in terms of grip, attributing it to windy and sandy conditions. He further elaborated on the significant changes drivers must make for the 2026 season due to new energy systems, requiring more intense energy management. Hamilton also reiterated his criticism of the new regulations, finding them overly complex.

via racingnews365.com·gp-fans.com

Lewis Hamilton has detailed the complexities of driving the 2026 Formula 1 cars, specifically highlighting challenges with managing the new power units. These units feature a 50-50 split between combustion and electric power and have limited energy, adding to the car's overall complexity.

via grandprix247.com

Lewis Hamilton has expressed significant frustration with the new 2026 Formula 1 regulations, describing them as 'ridiculously complex' and potentially difficult for fans to understand. During testing in Bahrain, he noted challenges with the new car design and the complexity of the rules. Hamilton will also have a new race engineer, Carlos Santi, for the initial races.

via grandprix247.com·gpblog.com

Lewis Hamilton has voiced significant concerns regarding the new 2026 Formula 1 cars, describing them as 'ridiculously complex' and potentially slower than GP2 machinery. These comments follow a challenging test session where Hamilton experienced difficulties with the smaller, lighter car design.

via motorsportweek.com

Ferrari has unveiled its new SF-26 car for the 2026 Formula 1 season, built to new regulations and set to be driven by Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton. Following testing, Hamilton has expressed concerns that the new regulations are 'ridiculously complex' and may be difficult for fans to understand.

via formula1.com·theguardian.com

Lewis Hamilton will work with Kimi Raikkonen's former race engineer, Carlo Santi, for the initial races of the 2026 Formula 1 season. This is a temporary arrangement until a permanent replacement for Riccardo Adami is found. Hamilton has expressed concern that these repeated engineer changes could be detrimental to his performance.

via the-race.com·tsn.ca

Jenson Button believes Lewis Hamilton will return to his peak performance in the 2026 F1 season, citing the upcoming regulation changes as a positive factor. Lewis Hamilton himself is feeling more upbeat about Ferrari's direction for 2026, describing the new car as "more..." and expressing optimism despite a challenging 2025 campaign. Ferrari has implemented changes, including a race engineer reshuffle and a key technical hire, to improve performance.

via crash.net·scuderiafans.com

Ferrari is reportedly developing a new power unit strategy for the 2026 Formula 1 season, aiming to replicate a controversial technical advantage previously used by Mercedes. This move comes amid concerns from rivals about a potential loophole that could offer a significant power boost. The team is also expressing optimism about the car's performance and handling under the new regulations following initial shakedowns.

via gpfans.com

Ferrari is reportedly developing a 'wildcard' upgrade specifically for Lewis Hamilton to utilize in his second year with the team. This comes as Hamilton expresses hope for improved performance in the 2026 season, particularly with the new regulations, following a challenging first season in 2025.

via gpfans.com

Seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton was seen attending the 2026 Super Bowl with reality TV star Kim Kardashian, fueling rumors of a relationship. This sighting occurs as Hamilton prepares for his second F1 season with Ferrari, which will feature new regulations.

via planetf1.com

Ferrari has unveiled its 2026 Formula 1 car, the SF-26, which has shown promising speed and reliability during a recent shakedown. Additionally, Lewis Hamilton will have a new race engineer for the upcoming season, with Riccardo Adami moving to a different role within the team.

via grandprix247.com·destinationformula1.com·gpblog.com

A significant majority of F1 fans believed Lewis Hamilton could win a record-breaking eighth world championship if Ferrari provided a competitive car. The new 2026 car regulations were seen as more akin to those Hamilton experienced during his successful Mercedes era.

via theguardian.com·gpblog.com·independent.co.uk·planetf1.com·racingnews365.com

Lewis Hamilton expressed that it would be "much easier to get back to the top" at Ferrari due to his track record and understanding of what it takes to succeed. However, it was also suggested that it might take him at least two years to fully settle in and adapt to the team.

via theguardian.com·gpblog.com·independent.co.uk·planetf1.com·racingnews365.com

Lewis Hamilton has made significant changes to his management team ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season. He has parted ways with his manager Marc Hynes, who is taking a new role with the Cadillac F1 team. Additionally, his press officer Gabriella Quarku Yabboa will also be departing. These changes follow earlier reports of a new race engineer for the upcoming season.

via planetf1.com·youtube.com

Ferrari has signed French engineer Guillaume Dezoteux from Racing Bulls to serve as the head of performance operations. This move is expected to provide Lewis Hamilton with an early boost for the 2026 Formula 1 season.

via independent.co.uk

Ferrari announced that Riccardo Adami would no longer be Hamilton's race engineer for the 2026 season, taking on a different role within the team. This change was seen as potentially beneficial for Hamilton, who experienced difficulties with Adami during the 2025 season.

via theguardian.com·gpblog.com·independent.co.uk·planetf1.com·racingnews365.com

Lewis Hamilton described the upcoming 2026 season as the biggest regulation change he has experienced in his career. He expressed optimism about being involved in the development of the new Ferrari car from the outset, highlighting the technical importance of the year and the driver's role in energy management and system understanding.

via theguardian.com·gpblog.com·independent.co.uk·planetf1.com·racingnews365.com

Lewis Hamilton expressed significant excitement for the 2026 season after his first shakedown run in Ferrari's new SF-26 car at Fiorano. He described the team as feeling "refreshed" and looked forward to "new beginnings."

via formula1.com

2025

1 update

A new clause in Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari contract suggests an optional extension for the 2028 season. The article also details his challenging 2025 debut season with the team, during which he failed to secure a podium and was significantly outscored by his teammate.

via sportbible.com

2026

Story began · 1 month ago