Lewis Hamilton Finds His Form: A Ferrari Revival and Pursuit of Mercedes’ Pace

Lewis Hamilton is confident there is “more to reach” from him in the 2026 season, having finally secured a podium finish with Ferrari at the Chinese Grand Prix. This result marks a significant turnaround for the seven-time World Champion after a challenging 2025 and a 16-month stretch without a podium.

A Positive Start to 2026

Hamilton’s third-place finish in Shanghai followed a fourth-place result at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, representing his best start to a Formula 1 season since 2021, the last year he contended for the World Championship. He heads into the Japanese Grand Prix with momentum, as Ferrari aims to close the gap to early championship leaders Mercedes.

Mental and Physical Reset

After a statistically difficult 2025 season, Hamilton has displayed a consistently positive attitude since the start of pre-season. He credits a deliberate mental and physical reset over the winter break for his improved performance. “I definitely feel like I’m back to my best, both mentally and physically,” Hamilton stated after the Chinese Grand Prix. He emphasized the intensity of his training regimen, noting it was the “heaviest and most intense” he’s ever undertaken. This preparation began on Christmas Day with a new trainer and a focused mindset.

Embracing the New Era of F1 Cars

The 2026 season features new car regulations, with narrower, lighter vehicles and a 50-50 split between internal combustion and electrical power. Whereas these changes have divided opinions among drivers, Hamilton appears to be enjoying the challenge. He praised the racing as the “best [he’s] ever experienced in F1,” particularly highlighting the exciting battles with teammate Charles Leclerc. Sky Sports F1’s Anthony Davidson believes the new car design better suits Hamilton’s driving style, contrasting with the previous ground-effect cars.

Ferrari’s Input and Development

Hamilton also feels more involved in the development process at Ferrari this year, having provided input on car improvements during the off-season. He expressed gratitude that the team listened to his suggestions and implemented changes, fostering a stronger sense of unity. “To observe them listen and put some of those things that I’d asked for on the car…that’s been a real good boost,” he said.

The Power Unit Deficit

Despite the positive progress, Hamilton acknowledges that Ferrari is currently lacking in power unit performance compared to Mercedes. Prior to the Chinese Grand Prix sprint race, he noted a significant performance deficit on the straights, losing “a lot of time” to Mercedes. ESPN reported that Hamilton believes Ferrari is competitive in the corners but needs to address the power deficit to challenge Mercedes effectively.

Looking Ahead to Japan

While a first win for Ferrari remains the ultimate goal, Hamilton believes a podium finish brings that possibility closer. He emphasized the need for continued development and improvement, particularly in the power unit, to close the gap to Mercedes. “I really do believe in everyone back in Maranello and that it’s not an impossible feat to overcome,” he stated.

Sky Sports F1 Japanese Grand Prix Schedule

Thursday March 26
4am: Drivers’ Press Conference
7am: Paddock Uncut

Friday March 27
2am: Japanese GP Practice One (session starts at 2.30am)*
4.30am: Team Bosses’ Press Conference
5.45am: Japanese GP Practice Two (session starts at 6am)*
7.15am: The F1 Show*

Saturday March 28
2.15am: Japanese GP Practice Three (session starts at 2.30am)*
5am: Japanese GP Qualifying build-up*
6am: JAPANESE GP QUALIFYING*
8am: Ted’s Qualifying Notebook*

Sunday March 29
4.30am: Japanese GP build-up – Grand Prix Sunday*
6am: THE JAPANESE GRAND PRIX*
8am: Japanese GP reaction – Chequered Flag*
9am: Ted’s Notebook*

*Also live on Sky Sports Main Event

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