When Lewis Hamilton last won an F1 race as Ferrari megastar ends streak at Barcelona Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton finally returned to the top step of a Formula 1 podium after delivering a stunning victory for Ferrari at the Barcelona Grand Prix, ending one of the most talked-about winless streaks of his legendary career. The seven-time world champion produced a masterclass in strategy, pace, and race management to secure his first Grand Prix triumph in Ferrari colours and remind the paddock why he remains one of the sport’s greatest drivers.

The victory was particularly significant because it marked Hamilton’s first Formula 1 race win since the 2024 season. After leaving Mercedes for Ferrari ahead of the 2025 campaign, expectations were sky-high, but success proved difficult to achieve. Despite several promising performances, Hamilton had been unable to convert opportunities into victories, leading to questions about whether he could once again challenge for wins at the highest level.

Barcelona provided the perfect answer.

Starting near the front of the grid, Hamilton immediately showed strong pace and remained in contention throughout the race. Ferrari opted for an aggressive strategy that differed from several of their rivals, choosing a three-stop approach that ultimately proved decisive. While other teams focused on managing tyre life over longer stints, Hamilton consistently pushed hard and extracted impressive speed from the Ferrari package.

A key moment arrived when a Virtual Safety Car period played directly into Ferrari’s hands. Hamilton was able to make a pit stop at exactly the right time, losing less time than he would under normal racing conditions. The move effectively handed him a strategic advantage over the Mercedes drivers and allowed him to emerge in a commanding position. From that point onward, he controlled the race with authority.

George Russell eventually finished second for Mercedes, while reigning world champion Lando Norris secured third place for McLaren. Their results created a historic all-British podium, something Formula 1 had not witnessed since 1968. The achievement added another memorable chapter to a race already packed with significance.

Hamilton’s victory also brought an end to the remarkable winning streak enjoyed by Mercedes youngster Kimi Antonelli. The championship leader had won five consecutive races before arriving in Spain and looked capable of extending that run. However, a late reliability issue forced the Italian driver into retirement, denying him a podium finish and reducing his championship advantage.

For Ferrari, the win represented a major breakthrough. The Italian team had been searching for a Grand Prix victory since 2024 and had endured a frustrating period despite investing heavily in its future. Hamilton’s success not only ended that drought but also strengthened belief that Ferrari can challenge Mercedes for victories during the remainder of the season.

The emotional significance of the moment was impossible to ignore. Hamilton was visibly moved after taking the chequered flag and thanked his team, family, and supporters who had remained behind him during the difficult period without a win. After spending much of 2025 adapting to life at Ferrari and working to improve the car’s competitiveness, the victory felt like a reward for months of determination and hard work.

The triumph also extended Hamilton’s all-time Formula 1 win record to 106 victories and made him the oldest Grand Prix winner since Jack Brabham in 1970. At 41 years old, he continues to prove that age is no barrier when talent, experience, and motivation remain intact.

Most importantly, Barcelona may have reignited Hamilton’s championship hopes. While Antonelli still leads the standings, the Ferrari star significantly reduced the gap and sent a clear message to his rivals that he is far from finished. After a long wait, Hamilton is back in the winner’s circle—and Formula 1’s title race suddenly looks far more interesting.

Tags: #F1 #LewisHamilton #Ferrari #BarcelonaGP #Formula1 #Mercedes #GeorgeRussell #LandoNorris #KimiAntonelli