Lewis Hamilton has openly attributed his ongoing Formula 1 struggles to the ground-effect era regulations that began in 2022, a period that has brought major challenges to the 40-year-old driver’s career. Having narrowly lost the 2021 championship, Hamilton’s decline in results since the rule changes has sparked debate about the impact of these regulations on his performances, particularly as he once seemed destined to surpass Michael Schumacher’s record for title wins.
From Title Contender to Wrestling with Rule Changes
The introduction of ground-effect aerodynamics in 2022, reviving the so-called Venturi wind tunnel effect, shifted Hamilton’s fortunes, leaving him with fewer opportunities to compete at the front. Having enjoyed a dominant run between 2013 and 2020, and coming off a controversial defeat at Abu Dhabi in 2021, Hamilton has found the new cars difficult to master. The unstable handling characteristics have proven especially problematic, limiting his ability to add to his already impressive list of victories.
Hamilton has never hidden his reservations about the 2022-2025 regulatory changes. He has recently doubled down on his criticism, making it clear that he has no fondness for the current generation of ground-effect vehicles and expressing uncertainty about what the future holds.
There’s not a single thing I’ll miss about these cars. It’s been really interesting (2026 regulations).
Lewis Hamilton said, as reported by motorsport.com.
According to Hamilton, not a single element from these cars will be missed, and the seven-time champion has already set his sights on the next regulatory overhaul.
Hamilton Reflects on the “Worst Generation” and Hopes for Improvement
The latest seasons have been especially tough for Hamilton, as he secured only a couple of wins throughout the ground-effect era—an outcome that contrasts sharply with his earlier period of dominance. The Mercedes star has bluntly described the outgoing rules as the most challenging of his career, acknowledging their significant impact on both his results and his legacy in the sport.
This generation was probably the worst one, I would say, and I’m praying that the next one is not worse than that.
Lewis Hamilton added.
Hamilton’s unfiltered assessment underlines his frustration, as he hopes the forthcoming 2026 rules will not introduce even greater obstacles to his performance or his pursuit of further championships.
Backing Ferrari’s Approach Despite Struggles
In 2025, Ferrari, where Hamilton is set to race, made the early decision to stop development on their SF25 challenger after a series of disappointing performances. The team’s decision to hold off on upgrades drew Hamilton’s attention, with the driver actively encouraging team principal Fred Vasseur to focus on continuous improvement throughout the season to avoid lagging behind rivals.
Despite his push for further development, Hamilton ultimately offered unwavering support for the team’s strategy. He reflected on the learning curve faced by everyone involved and acknowledged that, given Ferrari’s position outside championship contention, prioritizing future development was justified.
I was pushing Fred, It’s like we can’t fall behind the others in terms of development for the new car, because it’s a steep learning curve for all of us. So I supported it 100%. I still do – I think it was the right decision. Particularly where we were already with the car, we weren’t fighting for a championship.
Lewis Hamilton noted.
The 2026 regulation changes present another unknown, with no clear frontrunner among teams or drivers. Ferrari’s decision to shift resources could yet pay off as Hamilton and his new team aim to capitalize on the next evolution of Formula 1 cars.
The Road Ahead: Make or Break for Hamilton’s F1 Future
With the 2026 season promising to reset the competitive order, all eyes are on whether Lewis Hamilton can adapt and reclaim his form. A sustained slump could push the champion to consider retirement, given the emotional toll and high personal expectations following his losses since 2021. As the sport enters yet another phase of transformation, the focus keyword—Lewis Hamilton ground-effect era struggles—remains central to understanding the challenges faced by one of Formula 1’s most accomplished drivers.
For now, Hamilton continues to voice his opinions, hoping future changes will restore a competitive edge, not just for himself, but for drivers, teams, and fans via a more balanced and exciting championship ahead.
