Lewis Hamilton Vows Fresh Start as Ferrari Prepares for Critical 2026 F1 Season

Hamilton’s Birthday Message Signals Renewed Determination

Lewis Hamilton says “the time for change is now” after a “very draining year” as he sent a message to his fans on his 41st birthday. The seven-time world champion is preparing for his second season with Ferrari, looking to bounce back from what he described as a nightmare debut campaign in red.

Hamilton turned 41 on Wednesday as he prepares for his second season at Ferrari following a disappointing first campaign where he failed to finish on the podium for the first time in his Formula 1 career. Despite the challenges, the British driver remains committed to his Ferrari dream.

A Difficult First Season at Ferrari

The combination of Formula 1’s most successful driver and its most successful team was supposed to be a match made in heaven — but the 2025 season ended with Lewis Hamilton calling it a “nightmare,” failing to get to grips with an underperforming Ferrari car. Hamilton was largely outperformed by team-mate Charles Leclerc, who finished on the podium seven times, highlighting the scale of Hamilton’s adaptation challenges.

It led Hamilton to often appear withdrawn and deflated throughout the season, as competitive results were hard to come by, ultimately finishing the season sixth in the Drivers’ standings. His only success came with a sprint race victory in China early in the season.

New Regulations Offer Hope for 2026

2026 is a huge moment for Formula 1 that will see both the chassis and power units updated in the biggest overhaul of regulations in the sport’s history. This reset provides Hamilton and Ferrari with an opportunity for a fresh start.

It’s also worth pointing out Hamilton always pointed at 2026 as his season to fight for a championship with Ferrari, even in the hype-fuelled early weeks of the move. The new technical regulations could play to Hamilton’s strengths as an experienced driver capable of mastering complex machinery.

What’s at Stake for the F1 Legend

Title success in 2026 would make him the third oldest world champion ever behind Fangio (x4) and Nino Farina. Hamilton also has the opportunity to claim a record-breaking eighth world championship, which would cement his legacy as Formula 1’s greatest driver.

Testing for the new season begins in Barcelona on January 26, giving Hamilton just weeks to prepare. With his birthday message emphasizing personal growth and change, the Ferrari driver appears mentally refreshed and ready to tackle the challenges ahead. The 2026 season could define the final chapter of one of motorsport’s most remarkable careers.