Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has once again become the centre of attention in the paddock after revealing a surprising change to his preparation methods with Scuderia Ferrari ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix.
The British driver has reportedly chosen to scale back his simulator programme before the Montreal weekend, believing that reduced virtual preparation has coincided with some of his strongest performances of the 2026 season. The decision has quickly sparked debate across Formula 1, with many questioning whether Hamilton’s experience and instinct behind the wheel are allowing him to rely less on modern simulation tools that have become essential for most drivers.
Simulator work has become a major part of Formula 1 preparation in recent years. Drivers often spend long hours in virtual environments studying tyre behaviour, setup changes, braking points and race scenarios before arriving at a circuit. However, Hamilton appears to be taking a different route as he continues adapting to life at Ferrari.
Sources close to the team suggest Hamilton feels mentally fresher and more instinctive on race weekends when he limits simulator sessions. The 41-year-old believes that overloading on virtual data can sometimes reduce a driver’s natural feel for the car, particularly during a season where teams are still learning to maximise performance under evolving regulations.
The move has generated mixed reactions inside the paddock. Some analysts view Hamilton’s approach as a reflection of his immense experience and confidence, arguing that few drivers in Formula 1 history possess the racecraft and technical understanding to step away from extensive simulator work. Others believe Ferrari could be taking a risk by reducing preparation time during such a fiercely competitive championship battle.
Despite the debate, Hamilton’s recent performances have shown encouraging signs. Ferrari have made noticeable progress in recent races, and the team hopes the Canadian Grand Prix can provide another opportunity to challenge rivals Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team, McLaren Formula 1 Team and Oracle Red Bull Racing.
With pressure mounting throughout the championship, Hamilton’s unconventional preparation strategy will now be watched closely throughout the Montreal weekend. If the decision delivers another strong result, it could further strengthen the argument that experience and driver instinct still hold enormous value in Formula 1’s increasingly data-driven era.