Ferrari still has a long way to go to close the gap to Mercedes in Formula 1. Even after the introduction of a new power unit and Charles Leclerc’s victory at the British GP, Lewis Hamilton stated that the necessary evolution will require time and continuous work.
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According to the seven-time world champion, the Italian team built a solid foundation in 2026, especially in terms of reliability, but significant changes in power unit performance do not happen overnight.
Although the SF-26 is considered one of the most competitive cars on the grid in terms of chassis, Ferrari still struggles compared to Mercedes and Red Bull Racing on the straights. The main factor cited is the lack of top speed, something Hamilton and Leclerc have been identifying throughout the season.
The Brit explained that drivers have limited involvement in this process and that development depends on the work done at the factory: “When it comes to the engine, there’s not much the driver can do. It’s the people at the factory and their experience who identify the necessary changes to unlock potential in the power unit,” he said.
Hamilton detailed that during race weekends, drivers provide information about drivability, throttle response, gear shifts, and transmission ratios: “We are always pushing for changes, or at least highlighting points for the team to go back to the simulator and assess if this can result in performance gains,” he said.
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The British driver also highlighted a recurring feeling when comparing Ferrari’s data with competitors: “Sometimes, it seems like there’s a lack of battery power at the end of the straights, because this shows up in comparisons with Mercedes and Red Bull,” he added.
Still, Hamilton made a point of praising the reliability shown by the Italian car, in a season marked by mechanical and electrical problems in several teams. For him, this aspect represents an important platform for future evolution.
“It’s important to understand that it takes months to design and implement changes that ensure reliability. The most impressive thing is that the team built a reliable car and power unit, and now we can evolve from this base thanks to the regulation change,” concluded the experienced British driver.
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