Lewis Hamilton surprised many this week by disclosing that he has been meticulously documenting every error made by himself and his Ferrari team throughout the year. Given the challenging season he has endured as a seven-time champion, the list likely spans a considerable length, possibly filling the largest notepad available in his local Monaco shop.
Approaching his 41st birthday in January, Hamilton acknowledges the dwindling opportunities he has left to secure an eighth Formula 1 title before retirement. The upcoming 2026 season holds significant importance for him, prompting a commitment to diligent work during the winter alongside his team to not only construct a swift car but also eliminate costly mistakes.
As the season’s conclusion approaches, it’s a fitting moment to reflect on the mishaps faced by Hamilton and Ferrari during their disappointing inaugural campaign. Despite high expectations at the start of the season, Hamilton’s debut in a Ferrari was lackluster, finishing 10th in his first Grand Prix due to adverse weather conditions causing chaos on the track.
A bright spot for Hamilton was his victory in the Sprint race in Shanghai, offering hope for future success with Ferrari. However, the euphoria was short-lived as Ferrari encountered a setback when both drivers were disqualified from the subsequent Grand Prix due to technical infractions after the race.
Hamilton shouldered the blame for a dismal performance at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, where he struggled to maintain position and was overtaken by competitors, culminating in a disappointing finish. His qualifying woes persisted in Belgium, with errors leading to poor performances in both the Sprint and Grand Prix races.
In a candid moment after the Budapest qualifying, Hamilton expressed self-criticism, labeling himself as “useless” and hinting at the need for a change in the driver lineup. Further missteps followed, including crashes and penalties, impacting his overall standings and performance throughout the season.
Despite efforts to bounce back, Hamilton faced challenges in Baku and Singapore, experiencing setbacks due to strategic missteps and technical failures. His struggles continued in subsequent races, culminating in a disappointing end to the season with multiple errors and qualifying eliminations.
As Hamilton navigates the highs and lows of his Formula 1 journey, each race presents new obstacles and opportunities for growth and redemption. The upcoming seasons will test his resilience and determination as he strives for success in the competitive world of motorsport.