What Lewis Hamilton’s F1 rivals are saying ‘off the record’ about the Ferrari star’s 2026 turnaround

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Lewis Hamilton is currently enjoying his best form with Ferrari since joining the Prancing Horse last year, and his rivals on the F1 grid have started to take note, according to F1 journalist Julianne Cerasoli.

The seven-time world champion’s most recent appearance at his home Grand Prix in Silverstone saw him collect a record-extending 15th podium at the Towcester-based venue, as well as his fifth top-three finish of the current campaign.

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It has been quite the turnaround for Hamilton this year, following his enduring of a tough season in 2025 that ended with the 41-year-old surrounded by retirement rumours. They seem to have subsided for now, with Hamilton already looking ahead to 2027.

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F1 drivers’ ‘off the record’ admission about Lewis Hamilton’s 2026 form

In a post-British Grand Prix episode of the In the F1 Paddock with Ju Cerasoli, the Brazilian journalist shared a conversation she had with several drivers regarding the change in the Ferrari ace’s fortunes as qualifying ensued at Silverstone.

“I asked them, ‘So, are you surprised by how well Ferrari are doing here at Silverstone, a track that relies heavily on power?’” she began, before revealing the “off the record” sentiments of the 41-year-old’s rivals.

“I heard some drivers say, off the record, ‘Wow, Hamilton’s driving brilliantly this year.’ They think the new rules and his driving style have just clicked really well.

“That element also puts more pressure on the two Mercedes drivers. He’s a bloke who’s absolutely used to victories and titles, and he’s in a really strong form right now. So, there’s the consistency of someone who’s already a proven multiple champion.”

While the F1 standings are currently dominated by the Mercedes duo of Kimi Antonelli and George Russell, Hamilton is currently circling in third place, 32 points adrift of the Italian driver’s benchmark.

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Antonelli has already made his feelings clear on the deficit Hamilton currently holds to him, and is well aware of the talent and composure that the seven-time world champion can bring to the table when in the midst of a title fight.

The next round of racing has been tipped to suit Mercedes’ package, so it remains to be seen whether Hamilton can further eat into the advantage that the Silver Arrows currently have over him.