Hamilton Feels 'in the Best Place I've Been in for a Long Time' Ahead of 2026 Season

As Lewis Hamilton prepares for his second season with Ferrari in 2026, the seven-time Formula 1 World Champion has shared his renewed sense of positivity and connection to the team's new car. Speaking during the second pre-season test at the Bahrain International Circuit, Hamilton described himself as feeling "in the best place I've been in for a long time."

The 2025 season marked a transitional period for Hamilton following his move from Mercedes after 12 years, filled with ups and downs as he adapted to the Scuderia. This year brings changes, including a new race engineer after Riccardo Adami's shift to the squad's academy. Despite the initial challenges, Hamilton reflected positively on his experience.

"It’s definitely been a challenge and one that I’ve enjoyed for the most part of it," Hamilton said. "Having had a year now with the team, everything is much more settled, the ins and outs of the working relationship. I’m really, really excited about this season – I think everyone’s really showed up with really great positivity."

Ferrari demonstrated strong reliability during the first test in Bahrain, completing 420 laps—outpaced only by McLaren and Williams. Hamilton noted the team's empathy and hunger, observed during his visits to the workshop before Christmas and into the new year, fostering a "really positive feeling."

When asked if this is the most optimistic he's felt at the start of a season in recent years, Hamilton replied, "I don’t remember the last five years, but maybe, yeah." He emphasized leaving last year's difficulties behind, focusing on rebuilding his body and mind over the winter. "I generally feel personally in the best place that I’ve been in a long, long time, with rearranging things within my team," he added.

A key factor in his confidence is his deeper involvement in the car's development. Unlike the inherited 2025 machine, the 2026 car incorporates Hamilton's input from simulator sessions over the past eight to ten months. "This is a car that I’ve been able to be a part of developing... so a bit of my DNA is within it so I’m more connected to this one, for sure," he explained. The new generation of cars adds excitement, as all teams navigate uncharted territory.

Hamilton's faith in Ferrari remains unwavering. "My belief in the team is still absolutely the same," the 41-year-old affirmed. "[I have] 100% faith in this team and what they’re capable of, and that’s why I joined the team." He acknowledged that success wouldn't come immediately, which is why he signed a longer deal, viewing it as a process. The team has learned from 2025 and implemented changes, working better together than ever.

As the season approaches, Hamilton's enthusiasm signals a promising chapter for Ferrari, with the driver eager to build on last year's lessons and push for victories.