Lewis Hamilton revealed he is actively working with Ferrari to ensure that some of my DNA is embedded in their 2026 Formula 1 car. This collaboration aims to enhance Ferrari’s future challenger as they prepare for the technical overhaul expected next season.

Despite early struggles with Ferrari’s current SF-25 car, Hamilton is focused on using his experience to influence its successor. Deputy team principal Jerome d’Ambrosio emphasized that the main objective remains to

build the fastest possible car

, with Hamilton’s inputs aligning closely with the demands of teammate Charles Leclerc.

Ferrari’s 2026 Car Development Informed by Driver Feedback

Lewis Hamilton’s integration into Ferrari has faced challenges, as he has yet to reach the podium with the team, while Charles Leclerc has secured four top-three finishes in the SF-25. Hamilton’s best result matched fourth place at Silverstone, but he found the car difficult to handle, especially in wet conditions.

Reflecting on the SF-25’s performance, Hamilton gave a candid assessment, saying

The car was unbelievably tricky to drive,

during a media session at Silverstone. He acknowledged the steep learning curve in adapting to the vehicle’s complexities, especially under adverse weather.

Hamilton added,

It’s only my second time driving in the wet in this car. I can’t even express to you how hard it is. It’s not a car that likes those conditions.

Following these experiences, Hamilton expressed his intention to collaborate closely with Ferrari’s designers for the 2026 model. He stated,

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.

Speaking to Auto Motor und Sport, Hamilton confirmed he was already working with Ferrari’s technical director Loïc Serra and his team, explaining,

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,

underscoring his active role in shaping the new car.

Design Philosophy and Shared Vision between Hamilton and Leclerc

While Hamilton adapts to the current Ferrari machinery, d’Ambrosio highlighted that both drivers’ desires for the upcoming car are remarkably similar. He described Ferrari’s approach to designing the 2026 car as a phased process focused initially on performance. He explained to Auto Motor und Sport,

You always have to be careful when you say that the car was built in a certain direction,

pointing to the complexity of the design workflow.

The initial phase prioritizes creating the fastest car possible within strict parameters, while the second phase concentrates on adapting the vehicle to drivers’ needs, enabling them to customize the car to their individual styles. d’Ambrosio stressed the importance of open communication, saying the team regularly engages with both Hamilton and Leclerc to address their requirements and translate them into performance gains.

He added,

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.

2026 F1 Regulation Changes and Ferrari’s Strategic Outlook

The 2026 Formula 1 season promises substantial technical changes, including smaller and lighter cars powered by new hybrid engines. These power units will combine electrical components with an internal combustion engine that runs entirely on sustainable biofuel, representing a major step toward greener racing.

This overhaul requires teams like Ferrari to rethink car design fundamentally. Hamilton’s ongoing collaboration with the technical department aims to ensure that the future car is optimized not only for speed but also adaptability to the drivers’ strengths and evolving regulations.

Hamilton’s Focus on Improvement as 2025 Continues

As the 2025 season resumes with the Belgian Grand Prix, Hamilton remains committed to improving his performance alongside his team. Positioned sixth in the Drivers’ Championship, just behind Leclerc by one spot and 16 points, Hamilton acknowledges room for growth.

He remarked,

I’m not driving that terribly but of course want to continue to improve,

showing his determination to build on recent progress.

Commenting on his recent qualifying performances, he said it was moving in the right direction, expressing hope for further gains:

I’m really hoping for some improvements moving forwards.

Hamilton’s pursuit of refining Ferrari’s 2026 car reflects his long-term commitment to returning Ferrari to race-winning form, leveraging his experience and insight to contribute meaningfully to the team’s evolution.