Ferrari Sets Sights on Performance Gains to Boost Hamilton & Leclerc in 2026 F1 Season

Ferrari could be entering a more promising phase as the team looks ahead to the 2026 Formula 1 season, with hopeful developments that may benefit both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc.

After a difficult 2025 campaign marked by inconsistent results and strategic shifts — including an early halt to SF-25 development in order to prioritize the new 2026 regulations — team leadership has openly acknowledged the impact this had on driver confidence and overall morale. Ferrari team principal Frédéric Vasseur admitted that the decision, while strategic, took a greater psychological toll on both Hamilton and Leclerc than initially expected, as the team struggled to deliver consistent performance throughout the year.

Despite the setbacks, internal sentiment within Maranello remains optimistic about 2026. The team believes that the new regulations could level the playing field and offer chances for a significant step forward. Improving the package for next season is seen as essential — not just for results, but also for strengthening the working partnership with Hamilton, who needs a competitive car to showcase his abilities, and reaffirming Leclerc’s role as a key asset in Ferrari’s long-term strategy.

Both drivers have faced a challenging first year together at Ferrari, but the expectation is that learnings from 2025 will fuel better preparation and development and make the pair more competitive as the 2026 season approaches. With clear ambition to rebound and perform strongly under the new technical rules, Ferrari hopes these positive shifts will translate into improved results and renewed confidence for its two stars.

Credit: Wikimedia Commons