Lewis Hamilton’s new Ferrari role is taking shape as the seven-time Formula 1 champion is placed at the center of the team’s future plans, with engineers counting on his expertise to drive crucial improvements at Maranello. Following a difficult start to life with Ferrari in 2025 and trailing rival teams like McLaren and Mercedes in the championships, Hamilton’s experience is being leveraged as the Scuderia shifts focus to prepare for sweeping regulation changes coming in 2026.
The 40-year-old joined Ferrari ahead of this season, looking to reignite his championship ambitions after a legendary run with Mercedes. However, Hamilton has faced setbacks, as Ferrari sits over 200 points behind McLaren in the constructors’ standings and his own shot at an eighth title appears out of reach for now. As the current campaign heads past its midpoint, senior figures and technical staff are already collaborating closely with Hamilton to influence the next era’s car development.
Hamilton’s Influence on Ferrari’s Technical Direction
Reports from Italian media, notably La Gazzetta dello Sport, indicate that Hamilton is now being asked to play a vital part in shaping Ferrari’s response to the new 2026 regulations. His input is especially valued in solving persistent issues with the car’s suspension and aerodynamic balance—areas Ferrari has struggled with over multiple seasons.
“Hamilton is focusing on the indications regarding the car’s suspension, a key element for making the floor work, obtaining maximum aerodynamic load and effective balance – precisely what the red car has lacked so far,”
—La Gazzetta dello Sport
There is pressure on Ferrari to transfer technical improvements into their 2026 challenger. Hamilton’s proven track record with Mercedes, where he led the team to multiple titles during a dominant era, could be a decisive asset. Ferrari insiders suggest that harnessing Hamilton’s ability to extract feedback and develop car concepts is their best hope of catching up to Mercedes, who are widely tipped to adapt quickly to the new rulebook.
“Finding a solution is important, because some concepts can be transferred to the next car, which will instead be totally different in other areas.”
—La Gazzetta dello Sport
Hamilton’s expanded responsibilities are also being interpreted as a way to keep the champion motivated, even as Ferrari struggles for competitiveness with the current car. The team’s leadership has acknowledged that his contract runs through at least 2026, with an option for 2027, but that Hamilton may consider retirement unless significant progress is made during his tenure.
“This is why Lewis is trying with all his strength to contribute to a turning point in Maranello, giving meaning to [Ferrari executive chairman] John Elkann’s project.”
—La Gazzetta dello Sport
Momentum and Motivation Ahead of the British Grand Prix
Hamilton currently sits sixth in the drivers’ championship with 91 points, only just behind teammate Charles Leclerc and narrowly ahead of Kimi Antonelli, who replaced him at Mercedes. This season has seen Hamilton often struggling with setup and performance, as he searches for solutions for both himself and the team. Despite speculation from some pundits that the British driver could walk away if results don’t improve, Hamilton has repeatedly demonstrated his determination to help Ferrari return to the top.
The most recent race in Austria offered a glimmer of hope—Hamilton qualified and finished fourth, equaling his best result of the year. These signs of improvement come just ahead of the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, a venue where Hamilton has delivered many memorable performances, including a surprise win last season.
With pressure mounting and his home crowd preparing for a possible moment of redemption, all eyes are on Hamilton to see if his influence and technical guidance can spur Ferrari’s resurgence on one of Formula 1’s most iconic stages.
The significance of Hamilton’s new Ferrari responsibilities extends beyond this season—his efforts alongside Ferrari’s executives, such as John Elkann, and technical teams are set to shape the Scuderia’s bid to reclaim its place as a championship-winning force in the sport. How Hamilton fares, both on and off the track, will have lasting implications for rivals like Mercedes and McLaren, as well as for the future direction of the entire Formula 1 grid. As upcoming rule changes approach, Hamilton’s central role may prove pivotal in determining whether Ferrari can once again be a standard-bearer for success in Grand Prix racing.
