P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Lewis Hamilton issues Ferrari DEMANDS over 2026 car
Lewis Hamilton has expressed interest in Ferrari’s 2026 power unit to influence the car design around his strengths, as per reports from Italian media. The upcoming regulation changes in 2026 offer a chance for Hamilton and Ferrari to make a competitive comeback in the championship race. Struggling with the current F1 cars, Hamilton has faced challenges since the last significant regulation overhaul in 2022, with minimal race wins. Despite joining Ferrari in 2025, Hamilton has not achieved any podium finishes, currently trailing in sixth place behind teammate Charles Leclerc in the driver standings. Issues with the Ferrari power unit’s engine brake, having sharper intervention compared to Mercedes engines, have contributed to Hamilton’s difficulties, prompting him to seek information on the 2026 power unit to resolve the issue. The future of Hamilton with Ferrari remains uncertain, with his contract extending till the end of the 2026 season, as he navigates performance struggles and questions about his commitment to F1 from pundits. Amid speculations and concerns about his motivations, Hamilton aims for a resurgence in form with the new era of F1 cars to replicate the success he had achieved between 2014-2020.
