Lewis Hamilton believes Ferrari has made a clear step forward with its 2026 car, with the Briton now feeling much more comfortable compared to last season.

After joining from Mercedes, Hamilton struggled throughout 2025 with a car that did not suit his driving style. With limited development and a focus on the new regulations, he ended the season without a podium for the first time in his Formula 1 career.

The early signs in 2026 are more positive. Hamilton returned to the podium in China, while Charles Leclerc also secured a top-three finish in Australia, suggesting Ferrari has moved closer to the front.

“When I joined Ferrari last year, I had nothing to do with the build of that car,” Hamilton said, as quoted by F1.com, explaining why the previous car did not match his preferences. “I arrived and was learning about a car that had been built not really for me and generally didn't suit my driving style.”

Ferrari incorporated some of his feedback into the SF-26, which has resulted in a car that feels more natural to drive.

“We come to this year's car, completely new era, new start for everyone, but I've got a couple of things on there that I asked for which I'm really grateful that they listened and did. Charles and I tested it and we both loved it. The car is lighter and nimble, less downforce but it's a lot more like a go-kart, throwing it around. It's quite fun,” Hamilton added.

Despite the improvement, Hamilton remains realistic about Ferrari’s position, with Mercedes still setting the pace at the front.

“Obviously Mercedes are still ahead, so we're under no illusion that they are clearly ahead. hey've qualified seven-tenths, six-tenths, three-tenths I think ahead, so we've still got a gap to try and close,” the Ferrari driver concluded.