Hamilton said that he “forgot who I was” for a time, but is raring to go after an impressive pre-season for Ferrari, one which has the Scuderia being talked about as title contenders. Hamilton has promised that “one hell of a season” is coming.
The sport’s most successful team and driver united in time for F1 2025, but it was a harrowing first season in Ferrari red for Hamilton.
He went all of 2025 without a podium, which was the first time in his F1 career that he has failed to score one in a season.
That led to some alarmingly negative outbursts from Hamilton, and chatter over whether he would carry on with Ferrari.
But, Hamilton, in an Instagram post following Bahrain testing, made it clear that “I’m not going anywhere” as he looks to embark on a fresh push for that record eighth title.
While Ferrari topped Bahrain testing via Charles Leclerc, what has really caught the eye in the paddock is Ferrari’s pace pace. It had McLaren team principal Andrea Stella declaring Ferrari, plus Mercedes, as the “teams to beat” in F1 2026.
It is clear that Hamilton is more than up for the fight, as the new era of Formula 1 begins.
“That’s a wrap on testing,” his post began.
“It’s inspiring to watch a team pull out all the stops to build a car. It’s the most fascinating part of this job for me. Everything is built from scratch and designed and redesigned over and over.
“And then there are only a few of us who get to put that machine to the test. That feeling never gets old.
“I want to say a huge thank you to everyone in the team back at the factory for the hard work to get to this point! I am truly grateful.
“I love this job so much and I love working with my team and driving for the fans. I’m incredibly lucky to be able to do what I do, and I’m excited for the season ahead.
“I’m reset and refreshed. I’m not going anywhere, so stick with me.
“For a moment, I forgot who I was, but thanks to you and your support, you’re not going to see that mindset again.
“I know what needs to be done. This is going to be one hell of a season. I’ve given everything to be here today. Let’s go team!”
The F1 2026 season gets underway in Melbourne. Free practice at the Australian Grand Prix commences on 6 March.
