What's Happening?
Ferrari has decided to change Lewis Hamilton's race engineer following a series of disagreements during the 2025 Formula 1 season. The decision comes after Hamilton's first season with Ferrari, which was marked by a lack of podium finishes—a first in his career. Riccardo Adami, who previously served as Hamilton's engineer, has been reassigned within the company. The move is supported by Martin Brundle, a former F1 driver and current pundit, who noted that the change was necessary given the issues observed last year. Hamilton is expected to begin testing the 2026 Ferrari car in a private session in Barcelona next week, although a new engineer has not yet been confirmed.
Why It's Important?
The change in Hamilton's engineering team is significant as it highlights
Ferrari's commitment to improving performance and addressing internal conflicts that may have contributed to a subpar season. For Hamilton, a successful partnership with his race engineer is crucial for interpreting his feedback and optimizing car performance. This decision could impact Ferrari's competitiveness in the upcoming season, as they aim to reclaim their position at the top of the Formula 1 standings. The move also underscores the high stakes and pressures within the sport, where team dynamics can significantly influence outcomes.
What's Next?
Ferrari is set to launch its 2026 car on Friday, with preseason testing scheduled to begin soon. The team will conduct two three-day tests in Bahrain before the season-opening Australian Grand Prix on March 8. As Hamilton prepares for the new season, the selection of a new race engineer will be critical. The team's performance in these early tests will be closely watched, as it may provide insights into how well the new engineering team can collaborate with Hamilton to enhance the car's performance.
