Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has outlined how Scuderia Ferrari are methodically working to close the performance gap to early-season pacesetters Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team under Formula 1’s new 2026 regulations.
Mercedes have made a commanding start to the campaign, with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli sharing victories across the opening three rounds. The Brackley-based outfit have adapted impressively to the overhauled chassis and power unit rules, establishing an early advantage in both the constructors’ and drivers’ standings. Under the leadership of Toto Wolff, the Silver Arrows appear to have interpreted the regulation reset more effectively than their rivals.
For Hamilton, who made the high-profile switch to Ferrari ahead of the 2025 season, Mercedes’ resurgence presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The British driver endured a difficult final phase with Mercedes, struggling to consistently outperform Russell and experiencing a prolonged win drought that stretched close to 1,000 days. His first season in Ferrari red also proved demanding, as he failed to secure a podium finish in 2025.
However, 2026 has signalled renewed momentum. Hamilton returned to the podium at the Chinese Grand Prix earlier this season, describing it as one of the hardest-earned results of his career. The 41-year-old has since made clear that he is fully invested in Ferrari’s long-term development plan.
Speaking recently about closing the deficit to Mercedes, Hamilton revealed that Ferrari are taking a highly analytical and collaborative approach. He explained that constant communication between himself and key technical figures—particularly within the aerodynamics department—has become central to their progress. Hamilton has been actively reviewing rival data, exchanging observations with engineers, and contributing feedback aimed at identifying incremental gains.
According to Hamilton, Ferrari’s internal culture has been a major source of motivation. He described visiting the factory and seeing staff working relentlessly to extract every possible millisecond of performance as both inspiring and energising. For the veteran driver, these behind-the-scenes efforts represent the essence of Formula 1’s competitive spirit.
Ferrari have already demonstrated flashes of competitiveness, including a notably strong starting procedure that has allowed Hamilton to challenge Mercedes machinery off the line. While the performance gap remains evident, Hamilton suggested that a structured development roadmap is in place and hinted at significant upgrades in the coming months.
With the 2026 season still in its early stages, Hamilton’s message is clear: Ferrari are not standing still. Instead, they are executing a calculated masterplan aimed at systematically dismantling Mercedes’ advantage and reasserting themselves as championship contenders.