Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has expressed approval for the new generation of F1 cars, describing them as more enjoyable to drive than previous eras. During the Barcelona shakedown for the 2026 regulations, he tested Ferrari's SF-26 and set an unofficial fastest lap. Hamilton highlighted the cars' forgiving nature compared to the unstable ground-effect models of 2022-25.
Lewis Hamilton, entering his fifth major regulatory overhaul in Formula 1, shared positive feedback on the new cars after participating in the Barcelona shakedown this week. The seven-time champion tested Ferrari's SF-26 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, following a filming day at Fiorano after the car's launch. Alongside teammate Charles Leclerc, Ferrari completed 444 laps, with Hamilton unofficially posting the fastest time of 1m16.348s.
Hamilton noted that the new cars are "a little bit more fun to drive" due to their oversteery and snappy handling, which is easier to catch than the knife-edge stability of the previous ground-effect era from 2022-25. "It's oversteery and snappy and sliding, but it's a little bit easier to catch. I would definitely say more enjoyable," he told F1 after the session.
The shakedown programme included an unusual wet-weather run on Tuesday, where Red Bull was the only other team on track once rain arrived. Hamilton, reflecting on his challenging first wet race in a Ferrari at last year's Australian Grand Prix, valued the experience. "It's been a really enjoyable week, honestly," he said, crediting winter preparations by both himself and the team for the smooth testing.
He praised the consistency and high mileage achieved, with no major downtime, attributing it to factory efforts. "We have a lot less downforce than previous years," Hamilton added, while emphasizing ongoing improvements and a strong winning mentality within Ferrari. Despite the positivity, he acknowledged that work remains ahead for all teams as they prepare for the 2026 season.
