Fittipaldi Praises Hamilton's Ferrari Turnaround, Backs Title Challenge

Two-time Formula 1 champion Emerson Fittipaldi says Lewis Hamilton has silenced his doubters this season, praising the seven-time champion's resurgence at Ferrari as the 2026 campaign enters its second half. Hamilton currently sits second in the drivers' championship in his second season with the Scuderia, a sharp turnaround from the criticism of his difficult 2025 adaptation that has reignited talk of a title bid.

Why it matters:

Hamilton's revival is more than personal redemption. After many wrote him off during a frustrating first year at Maranello, his current form re-establishes him as a genuine championship contender and gives Ferrari real hope of ending its title drought. For a sport built on legacy and rivalry, seeing Hamilton and the Scuderia competitive again adds genuine stakes to the fight with Mercedes.

The details:

• Speaking to F1.com, Fittipaldi recalled the harsh criticism Hamilton faced last year, when doubters claimed he was too old to match Charles Leclerc and had lost his edge.
• The Brazilian argued the 2026 regulations—featuring smaller cars with less downforce—have played directly to Hamilton's strengths, rewarding the car control and feel that define elite drivers.
• He noted Hamilton's second year with Ferrari has allowed him to build trust with his engineers and fully understand the team's systems, comparing the process to his own past career transitions.
• Fittipaldi also praised Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur, citing their positive working relationship in A1 Grand Prix and expressing confidence in his leadership at Maranello.

What's next:

With the second half of the season now underway, Hamilton will look to convert his momentum into a sustained title push. Fittipaldi is optimistic Ferrari can battle Mercedes at the front, suggesting Hamilton's growing comfort within the team could prove decisive as the championship fight intensifies down the stretch.