Hamilton Reportedly Keeping Ferrari Race Engineer Adami for 2026

Lewis Hamilton is reportedly set to continue with race engineer Riccardo Adami for the 2026 F1 season, resolving uncertainty after a difficult 2025 campaign. The decision follows a 'very positive' dinner between the seven-time champion and his engineer, a relationship that was publicly scrutinized due to awkward team radio exchanges. The move signals a commitment to building stability within Hamilton's inner circle at Ferrari as they head into a crucial season.

Why it matters:

A strong, trusting relationship between a driver and their race engineer is fundamental to extracting performance from the car and providing effective feedback to the team. After a season defined by on-track struggles and visible frustration, maintaining continuity is a key step in building the foundation Hamilton needs to challenge for wins and championships with Ferrari. It also quashes the 'silly season' speculation that was adding pressure to both parties.

The details:

• Hamilton's 2025 season was his first without a podium finish, a stark contrast to his illustrious career at Mercedes and a clear sign of the team's struggles.
• The campaign was marked by tense team radio communications, fueling speculation about a potential split between the driver and his engineer.
• Official Stance: Both Team Principal Fred Vasseur and Hamilton had previously left the door open for changes, with Hamilton stating he would review his "personal team" over the winter.
• Internal Perspective: Ferrari's Head of Track Engineering, Matteo Togninalli, insisted the relationship is "extremely positive," attributing public friction to the natural difficulty of adapting after 12 years with one team and the frustration of not competing for wins.

What's next:

The true test of this renewed partnership will be on-track results in 2026. With Hamilton and Adami now committed to working together, the focus shifts to developing Ferrari's Project 678 car. If the Scuderia can provide a competitive machine, the stability in this key relationship could be a crucial asset in their bid to challenge Red Bull and McLaren for top honors.