The 2026 F1 season has sparked renewed excitement around Lewis Hamilton, whose impressive resurgence with Ferrari has reignited hopes of another championship run. After a difficult debut campaign in red, the seven-time world champion has rediscovered his best form, earning praise from two-time Formula 1 champion Emerson Fittipaldi.
Key Takeaways
- Emerson Fittipaldi has praised Lewis Hamilton's impressive resurgence with Ferrari during the 2026 F1 season.
- Hamilton has climbed to second in the Drivers' Championship, putting himself firmly back in the title fight.
- Fittipaldi believes the 2026 regulations have played to Hamilton's strengths by rewarding driver skill and car control.
- The Brazilian legend expects Hamilton to mount a serious championship challenge in the second half of the season.
Fittipaldi Backs Hamilton's Ferrari Revival
Fittipaldi admitted he was delighted to see both Hamilton and Ferrari back at the front after a period of intense scrutiny. "I was so happy to see Lewis and Ferrari going fast," Fittipaldi shared, reflecting on how quickly opinions can shift in elite Formula 1.
Following a season in which many questioned whether Hamilton could still compete at the highest level alongside teammate Charles Leclerc, the Briton has silenced his critics by climbing to second in the Drivers' Championship. His consistency and renewed pace have reinforced his status as one of Formula 1's greatest drivers.
Mastering the Machines: Hamilton's Edge in 2026
A Driver's Formula
Fittipaldi believes the 2026 Formula 1 regulations have been instrumental in Hamilton's resurgence. With the latest generation of cars being smaller and producing less downforce, drivers are required to rely more on precision, feel, and raw talent behind the wheel.
"It brings out more talent," Fittipaldi explained. According to Fittipaldi, those characteristics perfectly suit Hamilton's driving style. The new technical era rewards drivers who can extract maximum performance through skill rather than relying purely on aerodynamic grip, allowing Hamilton's experience and car control to shine.
Building Ferrari Connections
Hamilton's second season with Ferrari has also brought greater familiarity with the team's engineers, processes, and working environment. That improved understanding has helped strengthen the partnership, allowing the Briton to maximise both the car's potential and his own performance as the season has progressed.
An Eighth Title Is No Longer Just a Dream
With momentum firmly on his side, Lewis Hamilton is emerging as a genuine contender for a record-breaking eighth Formula 1 world championship.
Fittipaldi is eager to see the championship battle intensify. "I really hope Lewis challenges for the championship," he stated, echoing the sentiments of millions of fans worldwide.
The Brazilian also credited Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur for helping restore the Scuderia to the front of the grid through strong leadership and continued progress.
As the second half of the 2026 F1 season unfolds, Hamilton and Ferrari appear well-positioned to challenge for the biggest prize in motorsport. If their upward trajectory continues, fans could be in for one of the most memorable title battles in recent Formula 1 history.
