Lewis Hamilton warned Ferrari rivals by projecting a stronger second half in the 2026 Formula 1 season. The team is preparing an aggressive sequence of updates, including improvements to its power unit.
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Ferrari reached the midpoint of the championship in second place among constructors, 72 points behind Mercedes. Although considered one of the most competitive teams in corners under the new regulations, the lack of speed on the straights has limited its ability to contest wins more frequently.
Hamilton stated that the straight-line performance gap reached three or four tenths during the first part of the year. “It was an incredible first half, considering we were probably three or four tenths behind on the straights because of power. I know the team is working hard to bring updates,” he explained.
The team finished the Hungarian GP with Charles Leclerc in fourth and Hamilton in fifth, a result below expectations after the performance shown over the weekend. Still, both have already won in 2026, with Leclerc triumphing at Silverstone two rounds after Hamilton’s first win for Ferrari.
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The seven-time world champion highlighted that Ferrari maintained a steady development pace during the first half of the season. “We are bringing updates weekend after weekend. We expect to have more news in the second half and will keep pushing,” he said.
Hamilton also believes his own performance can grow after the break. “I think the second half will be stronger. Usually, this is a better period for me. I will use this time to reorganize and try to come back stronger, in better shape and mentally more prepared,” he added.
The Briton’s expectation is linked both to Ferrari’s technical progress and the possibility of reducing the power deficit that affected the car on the straights. With new updates planned, the team intends to intensify the chase of Mercedes in the second part of the championship.
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