Brundle backs Hamilton for better 2026 season with Ferrari
Martin Brundle believes that Lewis Hamilton is poised for a significantly improved 2026 season with Ferrari, attributing this optimism to the seven-time world champion’s evident happiness, reports BritPanorama.
The former driver and pundit supports Hamilton’s potential comeback after a challenging 2025 season, during which he did not manage a podium finish in any grand prix. His only highlight last year was securing a sprint race victory in China, notably when Ferrari showcased competitiveness against their rivals.
Brundle expressed admiration for Ferrari’s winter testing programme, noting their innovative designs, such as a unique exhaust wing concept that enhances downforce. “Isn’t it nice to see Ferrari with that confidence, and they just generally looked very good, didn’t they, through the test?” Brundle remarked. Charles Leclerc’s impressive performance solidified Ferrari’s status, registering the fastest lap of the winter and indicating that they are now among the top three teams as they approach the season opener in Melbourne.
However, Hamilton faces a significant challenge from his teammate, Leclerc, who outperformed him last year, winning 18 of the 21 races where both drivers finished. Brundle pointed out, “He’s got to beat Charles Leclerc in the other Ferrari because he’s right on it as well.” The Monegasque driver has established himself as a formidable competitor, and for Hamilton to mount a genuine championship bid, he must substantially improve his results against Leclerc.
Sky Sports colleague Craig Slater highlighted Hamilton’s efforts over the preceding year to build rapport within the team and influence the design of the 2026 car. “He said that ‘I’ve put my DNA in this car’,” Slater noted, contrasting this proactive approach with Hamilton’s struggles to acclimate last season.
Brundle is excited about the possibility of Hamilton, now at 41, contending for an eighth world title. He acknowledged, “Lewis transcends Formula 1 like no other driver, in my view, has before or does now,” while also recognizing the fierce competition from a crop of younger drivers eager to make their mark.
The coming season promises to be a pivotal one for Hamilton and Ferrari, as the team aims to reclaim its place at the forefront of Formula 1. With the right momentum and a happier driver, the potential for a resurgence is palpable.
