Lewis Hamilton’s strong start to the 2026 Formula 1 season led the British driver to respond directly to recent criticism. The seven-time champion stated that some of the critics ‘didn’t come anywhere near’ the success he has achieved in the category.
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The statements came after a more competitive start with Ferrari, following a difficult 2025 season. Last year, Hamilton became the first driver for the Italian team in over forty years not to achieve a podium in any GP during the season, which raised questions about his future in Formula 1.
Among the critics were names like former F1 drivers Ralf Schumacher and former teammate Nico Rosberg. Now, more comfortable with the new generation cars, Hamilton reacted after returning to the podium with Ferrari in Shanghai and engaging in direct battles with teammate Charles Leclerc.
Currently, the Briton holds fourth position in the drivers’ championship, just eight points behind Leclerc. Ferrari appears as one of the main competitors to Mercedes, although they are still forty-five points behind the German team in the constructors’ championship.
In an interview with F1 TV, Hamilton commented on the impact of the criticism and the response on track: “When you have difficult years, there are many questions from all sides. I saw certain individuals who haven’t had anywhere near the success I’ve had, speaking negatively, as they continue to do today,” he stated.
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The Briton also highlighted his satisfaction with the start of the current season: “It was great to be able to come back and start strong, to show that I still have what it takes to compete at the front. I’m going to keep trying to show up and deliver in that way,” he said.
Hamilton also commented on the impact of his first podium with Ferrari, highlighting the positive atmosphere within the team, even after the difficulties of 2025. According to the driver, the constant support was essential during the most complicated period: “Honestly, it was huge. The team has been incredible over the last year. Especially in the garage, the support was immense. Every weekend last year we fell short, and I would come back devastated for not delivering the result. But they always said ‘next time, next time’,” he added.
The British driver highlighted the emotion of achieving the podium and seeing the team’s reaction: “Finally getting the podium and seeing how happy and grateful they were to be part of it really warmed my heart. It encourages me to keep pushing, go deeper and continue building with the team,” he completed.
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