Lewis Hamilton caused a stir recently by disclosing that he has been meticulously documenting every misstep he and his Ferrari team have taken this season, ahead of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Given the challenging year the seven-time champion has faced, there seems to be an extensive list of errors that could fill a sizable notepad.
Approaching his 41st birthday in January, Hamilton is aware of the limited opportunities remaining to clinch an eighth Formula 1 title before retirement. The upcoming 2026 season holds significant importance for him, prompting dedicated efforts with his team to not only develop a competitive car but also rectify costly mistakes.
As the season finale approaches, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the disappointments of Hamilton and Ferrari throughout their debut season. Despite high expectations, Hamilton’s initial races with Ferrari were underwhelming, notably finishing 10th in challenging weather conditions in his first Grand Prix.
Hamilton’s standout moment came in Shanghai, where he claimed victory in the Sprint race. However, this remained his sole triumph for the season. Ferrari’s struggles were highlighted when both drivers faced disqualification at a subsequent race due to technical violations.
Throughout the season, a mix of team and individual errors plagued Hamilton’s performance, from strategic miscalculations to personal setbacks during races. These incidents underscored the ongoing challenges Hamilton faced, including difficulties in qualifying and race management.
Despite occasional flashes of promise, Hamilton continued to encounter setbacks, such as post-race penalties and unexpected technical issues. His resilience was tested further by personal errors and team miscommunications, leading to compromised performances on multiple occasions.
In a season marked by ups and downs, Hamilton grappled with a series of setbacks and disappointments, culminating in a challenging conclusion for the year. As he looks ahead to future opportunities, Hamilton remains focused on learning from past mistakes and striving for improved results in the upcoming seasons.