How Hamilton wants to give his “DNA” to the 2026 Ferrari F1 car

Hamilton Aims to Leave His Mark on Future Ferrari F1 Car Ahead of 2026 Regulations

As the 2025 Formula 1 season reaches its midpoint, attention turns to the upcoming regulations overhaul, with Lewis Hamilton expressing his desire to infuse the 2026 Ferrari car with his own “DNA.” The seven-time world champion hopes to shape the next generation of Ferrari machinery as the Scuderia looks to rebound from a challenging season.

The Connection Between Present and Future

The challenges facing Ferrari this season provide a backdrop for the crucial work that must be done ahead of 2026. The current model has fallen short of expectations, underscoring the importance of making foundational design choices now that will impact the future.

Hamilton’s involvement in the development of the new car could be pivotal. He aims to contribute insights drawn from his extensive experience and success, hoping to align Ferrari’s ambitions with his driving style.

Addressing Current Inconsistencies

Hamilton’s 2025 season has not been smooth sailing; a lack of connection with the car has hindered his performance. He seeks to address these limitations by sharing his expertise and preferences during the development phase of the 2026 Ferrari. Specific areas, such as power steering adjustments, are of particular interest for the Briton, who has requested changes tailored to his driving needs.

“It’s still difficult. It’s a tricky balance, and the driving isn’t comfortable,” Hamilton noted, highlighting the ongoing challenges in adapting to the SF-25.

Technical Adjustments and Team Dynamics

In his pursuit of better performance, Hamilton has begun to mirror the setup preferences of teammate Charles Leclerc, who has found a way to exploit the car’s capabilities. The collaboration between the two drivers could be crucial as Ferrari navigates its technical challenges.

“We try to take into account both drivers’ inputs,” said Ferrari’s deputy team principal Jerome d’Ambrosio, emphasising the importance of listening to the drivers at every stage of car development.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As preparations ramp up for the next season, the focus must not solely be on immediate performance gains but rather on creating a flexible platform that can adapt to a variety of driving styles. Hamilton has expressed concerns about the car’s braking and engine response, which he finds overly aggressive compared to what he experienced at Mercedes.

Moreover, the collective input from Hamilton and Leclerc is expected to guide design processes aimed at maximizing both performance and driver comfort.

Conclusion: A New Era for Ferrari

By channeling his “DNA” into the 2026 Ferrari, Hamilton not only hopes to improve his own performances but also aims to set the stage for the team’s resurgence in the championship. As the development phase unfolds, the fusion of Hamilton’s vast experience and Ferrari’s engineering prowess could pave the path toward a more competitive future.

For fans and analysts alike, the next steps in this collaboration will be closely watched as the 2026 season approaches.