Lewis Hamilton revealed he is collaborating with Ferrari to ensure that some aspects of his driving style and preferences—the ‘DNA’—are incorporated into the team’s 2026 Formula 1 car. This development follows a difficult debut season with Ferrari, where Hamilton has struggled to match his teammate Charles Leclerc’s success in the current SF-25 model.
Deputy team principal Jerome d’Ambrosio emphasized that the main goal of Ferrari’s car development is to create the fastest car possible. He noted that Hamilton’s technical input largely aligns with Leclerc’s feedback, highlighting a unified approach as the team prepares for major regulation changes next season.
Challenges with the SF-25 and Hamilton’s Feedback on Performance
Hamilton has found the Ferrari SF-25, the team’s 2024 car, difficult to master and has not yet reached the podium, unlike Leclerc who has secured four top-three finishes. At Silverstone, Hamilton finished fourth—the best he has achieved this season so far and matched his previous best result—but fell short of scoring Ferrari’s first podium of the year, which was claimed by Sauber’s Nico Hulkenberg.
Following the race, Hamilton openly criticized the car’s handling, especially in wet conditions. He described it as “unbelievably tricky to drive” and noted it does not perform well in the rain, stating,
“It’s only my second time driving in the wet in this car. I can’t even express to you how hard it is.”
He expressed a commitment to improving future performances by sharing specific recommendations with the designers for the next car.
Hamilton shared with the press,
“But as I said, having lots of data to take from this. For me, I might just sit down with the people that are designing the car for next year because there’s elements of this car that cannot go into the following year.”
This comment indicated his intention to influence Ferrari’s next-generation formula for 2026.
Collaboration with Ferrari’s Technical Team for 2026 Development
Speaking to Auto Motor und Sport, Hamilton revealed a close working relationship with Ferrari’s technical director Loïc Serra, who previously worked with him at Mercedes. Hamilton said,
“I’m already working hard with Loïc and his guys at the factory so that the future car will also have some of my DNA in it.”
This statement highlights Hamilton’s active role in shaping the vehicle’s new design, as Ferrari anticipates significant regulation shifts.
Deputy team principal Jerome d’Ambrosio explained the structured design process behind Ferrari’s 2026 challenger. He clarified that the first priority is always pure performance, where engineers and designers focus on creating the fastest car under the new rules.
“First and foremost, development is all about maximising performance,”
d’Ambrosio said.
He added that accommodating driver input comes second, aimed at tuning the car to better suit individual driving styles:
“Only in the second phase is it about what the drivers might need.”
He emphasized the importance of open dialogue between drivers and the team, stating,
“It’s important to us in the team that we sit down with both drivers a few times a year. Everything is then put on the table.”
D’Ambrosio also pointed out that the feedback from Hamilton and Leclerc is largely similar, which simplifies the balancing act of tailoring the car:
“If you listen to both of them, their wishes are very similar.”
He further noted,
“The fact that Loïc worked with Lewis at Mercedes for many years obviously helps with communication. But Loïc also has a very good relationship with Charles.”
F1’s Upcoming Changes and Ferrari’s Preparation for 2026
The 2026 season will mark a major transformation in Formula 1, introducing smaller and lighter cars powered by more sustainable hybrid power units. New engines will feature a balanced 50/50 split between electrical and internal combustion power, with the latter running on fully sustainable biofuel.
These regulatory changes are expected to shift competitive dynamics, with teams like Ferrari aiming to adapt aggressively. Hamilton’s engagement in shaping the car’s DNA indicates Ferrari’s intent not only to enhance performance but also to harness the strengths of their drivers in the upcoming era.
Current Season Status and Hamilton’s Outlook
Heading into the Belgian Grand Prix, the focus remains on extracting greater performance from the current SF-25, as the team looks to improve results before the next generation arrives. Hamilton currently sits sixth in the Drivers’ Championship, just one position and 16 points behind Leclerc.
Reflecting on his recent form, Hamilton said,
“I’m not driving that terribly but of course want to continue to improve.”
He expressed optimism about progress:
“Qualifying was looking better, and I think we just continue to build on that.”
He concluded on a hopeful note,
“I’m really hoping for some improvements moving forwards.”
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Lewis Hamilton vegan?
A. Race car driver Lewis Hamilton openly supports veganism. He is also investing in businesses focused on plant-based products.
Q. Is Lewis Hamilton a vegan?
A. Lewis Hamilton believes he showed skeptics they were wrong by thriving on a vegan diet. Hamilton went vegan in 2017, even though his doctors advised against it. Since adopting this diet, he has won four championships, claiming his energy has increased. Hamilton is one of many professional athletes who have successfully transitioned to a plant-based lifestyle.
