Lewis Hamilton’s first Formula 1 win with Ferrari has come with a candid revelation about the hurdles he faced behind the scenes. The seven-time world champion shared that he raced with an injury for several months during what turned out to be a challenging debut season with the Italian team. This insight sheds new light on a campaign filled with criticism, setbacks, and intense scrutiny. Hamilton’s remarks followed his long-awaited victory in Barcelona, a win that not only put an end to months of speculation about his move to Ferrari but also marked a significant turning point in his journey with the Scuderia.
The British driver explained “At the beginning of last year I got injured here, actually, and carried that for months. “A thing that I just know is to never doubt yourself, never second-guess yourself.”
Nevertheless, he chose to rise above the negativity by surrounding himself with family and close friends, and he dedicated himself to what he called the toughest winter training program of his career. He believes that this process was crucial in rebuilding his confidence and restoring the mindset that has fueled his success over the years.
Also Read | Lewis Hamilton’s Seven-Title Response Turns Heads Ahead of Barcelona GP
Lewis Hamilton wins first F1 race with Ferrari in Barcelona
Hamilton’s big moment came at the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix, where he clinched the 106th victory of his Formula 1 career and his very first win with Ferrari after 31 races with the team. This triumph made him the 41st driver to take the top spot for Ferrari since the brand joined Formula 1 back in 1950, and he became the first British driver to do so since Eddie Irvine’s win in Malaysia in 1999.
This victory marked an incredible turnaround from a tough 2025 season, where Hamilton finished sixth in the drivers’ standings, trailing his teammate Charles Leclerc by 86 points. Thanks to Ferrari’s impressive development, a solid three-stop race strategy, and Hamilton’s speed in the sweltering Barcelona heat, he delivered a stunning performance. He crossed the finish line nearly 20 seconds ahead of George Russell, while Lando Norris rounded out the podium, making it the first all-British Formula 1 podium since 1968.
He expressed gratitude towards Ferrari’s team principal, Fred Vasseur, the dedicated staff in Maranello, and his loyal supporters who stood by him during the toughest times of his career. This victory also narrowed the gap to championship leader Kimi Antonelli to 41 points, keeping his dream of clinching a record eighth world title very much alive.
Later, Hamilton dedicated his win to the passionate Tifosi of Ferrari and his own fanbase, recognizing their unwavering support during times when maintaining confidence and hope felt nearly impossible. For the 41-year-old, this result was more than just another race win; it symbolized the fruits of months of hard work and the start of what he hopes will be a triumphant new chapter in red.
