Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton can dream of an eighth F1 championship: ‘If he smells blood, he goes’

Key Points:

• In January 2025, Lewis Hamilton visited Ferrari’s Formula 1 factory in Maranello after moving from Mercedes, expressing confidence that Ferrari has what it takes for him to win an eighth world championship.
• Despite a challenging, podium-less first year with Ferrari and turning 41 before the 2026 season, Hamilton’s recent win in Barcelona and ongoing car upgrades have reignited hopes of contending for the title.
• Mercedes currently leads the championship with Kimi Antonelli, but Hamilton’s consistent performance and Ferrari’s planned engine upgrades under the FIA’s ADUO system are narrowing the gap.
• Mercedes F1 chief Toto Wolff acknowledges the threat Hamilton poses and suggests the team may need to manage their drivers differently to avoid compromising results as Hamilton re-enters the title fight.
• Hamilton remains focused on taking the championship "one race at a time," emphasizing enjoyment and continuous improvement with Ferrari, while his Barcelona victory could mark a turning point in his pursuit of an eighth title.