Lewis Hamilton Poised for Resurgence at Ferrari in 2026, Backed by Jenson Button

Seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton is expected to return to his peak performance in the 2026 season, according to former teammate and fellow champion Jenson Button. This prediction comes after a challenging debut year with Scuderia Ferrari in 2025, where Hamilton finished the season without a podium finish for the first time in his F1 career.

Button’s Confidence in Hamilton’s Potential

Jenson Button, the 2009 F1 World Champion, expressed his belief in Hamilton’s ability to bounce back, particularly with the introduction of significant new regulations for the 2026 season. “It was tough watching Lewis in 2025,” Button told Sky Sports News. “We were teammates for three years and I understand how good he is, so it was really tough to spot him struggle and you could see it in his face how much it was hurting.”

Button highlighted the impact of the regulation changes, stating that they offer a “reset” for Hamilton as he adapts to his new team. He anticipates Hamilton will actively contribute to the design of the 2026 car, shaping it to suit his driving style. “I have confidence he’ll seize it in a direction that works for him,” Button added. Formula1.com reports that Button believes seeing Ferrari and Hamilton “at the front” is a realistic expectation.

A History of Partnership and Respect

Button and Hamilton were teammates at McLaren from 2010 to 2013. Button recalled the challenge of partnering with Hamilton, who had already achieved World Championship success in 2008. “I was teammates with Lewis for three years and, when I left Brawn in 2009 as a World Champion, I needed a new challenge and that challenge was to go up against Lewis Hamilton,” Button explained. He described beating Hamilton in the same car as feeling “almost like winning a World Championship.”

Button too acknowledged Hamilton’s longevity in the sport, noting that at 41 years old, he still has much to offer. He suggested that Hamilton’s success beyond Formula 1 will depend on finding fulfilling pursuits outside of racing. “As long as he has something that he wants to achieve in life outside of F1, he should jump,” Button stated. Express.co.uk highlights Button’s belief in Hamilton’s ability to thrive in other ventures due to his positive operate ethic and interpersonal skills.

Looking Ahead to 2026

With the 2026 season on the horizon, both Button and Hamilton express optimism. Hamilton has publicly stated his commitment to the sport, promising fans he is “not going anywhere.” The new regulations and Hamilton’s anticipated influence on the Ferrari car design create a promising outlook for the seven-time champion as he pursues a record-breaking eighth World Championship title.