Hamilton's tough Ferrari season as upgrades paused for 2026 rules

Lewis Hamilton’s debut season at Ferrari has become a struggle rather than a fairy tale, with the team confirming there will be no significant upgrades to the SF25 as it turns its development focus to 2026’s radical rule changes. The seven‑time world champion returned from the summer break closer to the pace of teammate Charles Leclerc but remains without a full Grand Prix podium in Ferrari red, having taken a lone sprint win in China, and sits sixth in the drivers standings, 44 points adrift of Leclerc.

Ferrari officials and team insiders say the SF25 is effectively in its final specification for 2025 as resources are shifted toward next year’s car. The 2026 regulations will shrink and lighten the chassis, alter tyre widths, remove the drag reduction system and introduce active front and rear aerodynamics, while power units will deliver substantially more electrical power and run on fully sustainable fuel. Hamilton has been candid about the limitations this imposes, saying, "I would give anything for an upgrade, but obviously we don't have that, to focus on next year's car."

On track the season has been mixed. Leclerc has reached the podium five times, while Hamilton’s best...