Hamilton fires back at critics, asserts he 'still has what it takes' at Ferrari

Lewis Hamilton has responded to recent criticism from figures like Ralf Schumacher and Nico Rosberg, stating they haven't achieved "anywhere near the success" he has, as he finds form with Ferrari in the 2026 season. The seven-time champion secured his first podium for the Scuderia in Shanghai, signaling a strong comeback after a difficult debut year with the team.

Why it matters:

Hamilton's retort underscores the intense scrutiny faced by even the most successful drivers during a performance slump. His return to podium contention validates his move to Ferrari and silences doubts about his ability to compete at the highest level into his 40s, reinforcing his legendary status while boosting morale within the storied Italian team.

The details:

• Hamilton specifically called out "certain individuals" for negative commentary during his challenging 2025 season, his first with Ferrari, where he failed to score a single podium.
• He emphasized the significance of his Shanghai podium, describing it as a huge morale boost for a garage that remained "positive and supportive" throughout the previous year's struggles.
• Current Standings: The result has propelled Hamilton to P4 in the Drivers' Championship, just eight points behind teammate Charles Leclerc, with Ferrari emerging as the closest challenger to Mercedes in the Constructors' fight.
• Team Dynamic: His comments highlight a positive working relationship with Ferrari, contrasting with the external criticism and suggesting a unified team environment focused on future success.

What's next:

Hamilton's renewed confidence and competitive results set the stage for a compelling intra-team battle with Leclerc and a potential championship fight. His performance will be crucial in determining whether Ferrari can close the 45-point gap to Mercedes and mount a sustained title challenge, proving his critics wrong once and for all.