Here’s the latest on Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari for the 2026 season, based on primary F1 coverage up to May 2026.
Direct answer
- Hamilton moved to Ferrari for the 2026 season and has been actively talking up the project, expressing strong confidence in new regulations and the SF-26 program, with the team targeting competitive performance in the early races.[1][5]
Key developments and context
- Early 2026 testing and shakedown: Hamilton completed a shakedown run in Ferrari’s SF-26 at Fiorano, signaling a hands-on role in the car’s development and a readiness to push for rapid adaptation to the new regulations.[5]
- Team perspective: Ferrari described the mood as refreshed, with Hamilton publicly stating he’s massively excited for “new beginnings” in 2026, underscoring a renewed focus after earlier seasons and an emphasis on getting the package right under the new aero and energy-management rules.[5]
- Expectations and narrative: A common theme across outlets is Ferrari’s challenge to convert potential into wins during a season with a major regulatory overhaul; pundits note that while a strong start is possible, sustained success will hinge on car performance, reliability, and effective collaboration with the engineering and pit-wall teams.[1][5]
What to watch next
- First race weekends of 2026: Look for how Hamilton adapts to Ferrari’s operating procedures and how the SF-26 performs relative to rivals under the revised rules package.
- Operational stability: There’s ongoing interest in how Ferrari supports Hamilton with race engineering and long-term development as the season progresses.
Illustrative example
- If you’re tracking performance, compare Hamilton’s first three races in 2026 to Leclerc’s results, focusing on qualifying pace, race pace, and strategy calls, to gauge how well the SF-26 translates development work into results.[5]
Citations
- Hamilton’s 2026 season enthusiasm and first drives in the SF-26, including quotes about “new beginnings” and the refreshed team mindset.[5]
- Coverage noting Ferrari’s expectations and the potential for early race wins, plus the context of the 2026 regulations changes.[1][5]
- Additional commentary on the broader media narrative around Hamilton’s adaptation to Ferrari and the 2026 project.[4]