After Lewis Hamilton secured an impressive fourth place at the opening race of the 2026 Formula One season in Australia, Italian media outlets have revisited their previous criticism of the seven-time world champion. Hamilton’s promising performance, finishing just behind Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc who placed third, has reignited interest and confidence in his potential this year, especially amid concerns about the emerging rivalry within the team.
The renewed optimism reflects in the shift of tone from the Italian press, which had been critical of Hamilton’s struggles during his 2025 debut season with Ferrari. His enhancement in qualifying and race pace has sparked hopes that he now drives a car capable of contending for top honors, a stark contrast to last year’s difficulties.
Progress Shown Despite Last Season’s Difficulties for Hamilton at Ferrari
The 2025 season marked a challenging introduction for Hamilton at Ferrari, with sporadic success such as his sprint race victory in China failing to translate into consistent Grand Prix results. His frustrations were publicly evident through outspoken radio messages and his self-critical remarks about his performance and the SF-25 car.
These incidents attracted sharp criticism from Italian media, including from Corriere della Sera, which at one point questioned Hamilton’s approach and future at Ferrari. The outlet had expressed that Hamilton
is a champion who can’t behave like a champion
and suggested his honeymoon is already over after the Brazil Grand Prix last year.
Corriere della Sera Highlights Hamilton’s Revival and Championship Contender Status
Following Hamilton’s strong result in Australia, Corriere della Sera published a new perspective on his form, stating:
Hamilton is back, he got the Ferrari he wanted.
They credited Hamilton’s resurgence to finally having a car that can genuinely compete for the championship.
The publication also acknowledged their previous misjudgments by declaring:
We criticised him, we thought he was ready for retirement, and now it’s time to start making amends while he’s started acting like a champion again. Eventually, it seems Hamilton has got it [a car capable of challenging for the championship] and magically, the old fox has regained his shine.
Potential Challenges of a Ferrari Title Fight Between Hamilton and Leclerc
While the improved car and competitive performances from both Hamilton and Leclerc are promising signs for Ferrari’s title ambitions, Italian media have also raised concerns about the impact of an intensified rivalry between the two drivers. With Charles Leclerc’s strong showings and established status as a future title contender, a direct championship battle within the team could pose management challenges.
Corriere della Sera suggested possible tensions, pointing to the upcoming Chinese Grand Prix as a potential flashpoint, referencing Leclerc’s sprint race victory there last year. It stated:
To the point of wanting to get some revenge on Leclerc himself, perhaps in China, where he won the Sprint in 2025. A potentially problematic issue to manage; a major problem if Ferrari wins.
This situation would require adept handling by Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur to avoid internal conflict reminiscent of the strained rivalry between Hamilton and Nico Rosberg when they competed together. Despite Hamilton and Leclerc sharing a friendly relationship currently, the stakes of a title fight could transform their dynamic significantly.
What This Means for Ferrari and Formula One in 2026
Lewis Hamilton’s revival signals that Ferrari might possess a genuinely competitive package for the 2026 season, reinforcing expectations for a fierce title race. The presence of two strong contenders within the same team – Hamilton and Leclerc – enhances Ferrari’s chances but also intensifies the need for careful team management to maintain harmony and focus.
Fans and observers can anticipate a pivotal season where the internal Ferrari rivalry could be as defining as their battle with other teams, shaping the championship narrative. The unfolding competition will be closely watched at milestones like the Chinese Grand Prix, providing early indicators of how the rivalry might evolve and affect Ferrari’s performance.
