Hamilton Vows Schedule Overhaul After 'Very Draining' Ferrari Debut

Lewis Hamilton has revealed his debut season with Ferrari in 2025 was "very draining," prompting him to work with his personal team to create a more efficient schedule for the upcoming 2026 campaign. After a difficult year on and off the track that saw him finish sixth in the standings with no podiums, the seven-time champion is focused on "leaving behind unwanted patterns" to optimize his performance and well-being.

Why it matters:

Hamilton's move to Ferrari was a seismic shift in F1, but his underwhelming first season raised questions about his adaptation to a new environment. His proactive approach to reshaping his off-track life is crucial; a refreshed and optimized Hamilton could be the final piece Ferrari needs to mount a serious title challenge in 2026. His performance will be a key narrative throughout the season.

The details:

• Hamilton took to social media during the winter break to call 2025 a "very draining year" and declared "the time for change is now."
• His struggles were evident on track: he finished P6 in the drivers' standings, his lowest-ever finish, and was outscored by teammate Charles Leclerc by 86 points without a single podium visit.
• He previously cited the intense off-track demands, such as numerous photo shoots, as a significant part of the adjustment to life at Maranello.
• Despite speculation, Hamilton is expected to continue with race engineer Riccardo Adami in 2026 after a positive meeting, suggesting the changes are more about personal routines than trackside personnel.

What's next:

All eyes will be on Hamilton when the 2026 season begins to see if his off-track reset translates into on-track results. At 41, managing his energy and focus is paramount, and a more efficient schedule could unlock the performance level expected of a seven-time world champion. If successful, this strategic overhaul could not only revive his own career but also propel Ferrari back to the front of the grid.