Lewis Hamilton will likely be excited to witness the behind-the-scenes aspects of F1’s ground effects era. Between 2022 and 2025, Hamilton faced his least successful stretch, securing only two Grand Prix victories, 20 podium finishes, and a single pole position, with a marked decline in qualifying performance.
The 2025 season stands out as possibly his worst yet, as his high-profile contract with Ferrari failed to deliver any podium finishes, ending nearly 100 points behind teammate Charles Leclerc and marking his third consecutive early exit in qualifying. This downturn has led some to speculate about Hamilton’s decline, with critics suggesting he consider retirement as he nears 41 years old.
Although Hamilton’s 2025 performance was below his usual standards, it’s too soon to declare him past his prime. He will enter his second season with Ferrari in 2026, coinciding with a major F1 rules overhaul that should offer clearer insight into his current capabilities.
There are promising signs Hamilton might improve with the new generation of cars. Key among the changes is the elimination of venturi tunnels by 2026, replaced with flatter floor designs. Hamilton has openly admitted having difficulties with the current ground effects cars, and has expressed relief at the prospect of moving on from them.
This design change should also reduce sensitivity to ride height—a problem that impacted Hamilton’s later years at Mercedes and Ferrari’s SF-25. Sky Sports News reporter Craig Slater pointed out that with the new rules, performance won’t hinge on a single priority like before, and drivers who favored slower braking, like Hamilton, should find the new style more favorable.
Slater’s views echo those of Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, who suggested Hamilton’s driving style doesn’t suit the 2022 cars. Known for his aggressive late braking and strong corner entries, Hamilton struggled adapting to the smoother driving style demanded by ground effects cars, compounded by having to handle an inconsistent and difficult vehicle.
Wolff remarked at the 2024 Qatar GP that this generation of cars doesn’t align well with Hamilton’s trademark aggressive approach, particularly during qualifying laps. The upcoming 2026 season could mark the fresh start Hamilton needs.
Fan Take: This update is crucial for racing fans because Hamilton is one of the sport’s greatest drivers, and understanding how rule changes might revive his competitiveness adds excitement to F1’s future. If Hamilton bounces back with the new cars, it could reshape championship battles and bring thrilling new dynamics to the sport.
