Ferrari has chosen Carlo Santi to serve as Lewis Hamilton's race engineer at the start of the 2026 Formula 1 season, emphasizing continuity after Riccardo Adami's departure. This decision covers pre-season testing and the initial races, beginning with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne. The move aims to foster a stable working relationship with the new driver.
Ferrari's decision on Lewis Hamilton's race engineer has been a focal point as the team gears up for the 2026 Formula 1 season, which introduces major changes. Following Riccardo Adami's transition to a role in the Ferrari Driver Academy, speculation swirled about a temporary replacement. Instead, the Scuderia has appointed Carlo Santi not just for the Barcelona shakedown and Bahrain pre-season tests, but for the opening rounds of the championship.
Reports indicate that Ferrari intends to assess the partnership methodically before any long-term commitments. This approach prioritizes operational stability amid the complexities of modern F1, where clear communication influences strategy and performance. Paddock expectations had leaned toward a short-term arrangement for Santi, but the team has opted for continuity at this transitional phase.
Hamilton, a seven-time world champion joining Ferrari, has stressed the importance of a reliable engineer-driver dynamic. “It’s essential to build a strong connection,” he stated previously, highlighting how trust affects radio exchanges, setup tweaks, and race outcomes. Early testing feedback suggests positive developments between Hamilton and Santi, which could solidify the role if results follow.
No official announcements have named permanent alternatives, underscoring Ferrari's trust in Santi for now. In F1, the driver-engineer link is vital for elements like tire management and energy deployment, potentially as crucial as car competitiveness in 2026.
