Now, here is a fascinating look inside the Scuderia camp as the paddock rolls into the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez for the Mexico City Grand Prix. Lewis Hamilton has made it clear that the final five rounds of the season are essentially test sessions for the team. The Briton is actively pushing Ferrari to build a machine capable of fighting for world titles next year.
Looking back at a strong sophomore campaign with the Scuderia, Hamilton has already claimed a victory at the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix alongside five additional podium finishes. Teaming up with Charles Leclerc, those results have kept Ferrari second in the teams' standings, though Red Bull is charging hard in their mirrors following two quick-fire wins by Max Verstappen.
Speaking on Thursday's media day in Mexico City, Hamilton didn't mince words about the immediate mission. "Of course, we want to hold on to second in the Constructors’ Championship, but this is a time for us to really look at how the season has gone and continue working on and modifying our processes," he said. He added that his focus is squarely on next year's car, ensuring they retain this year's strengths while adding to the chassis and pushing for a power unit to rival Mercedes and Red Bull.
While Ferrari's 2026 challenger shines as one of the best through the corners, it has undeniably struggled against the raw muscle of the Mercedes and Red Bull power units. Hamilton pinpointed the engine as the absolute number one priority. Reliability is solid, but matching rival power would put them directly in the championship fight right now. Closing that gap is the main objective.
Beyond the power plant, the chassis itself still needs refinement. Hamilton noted that while downforce is always desired, the current operating window remains frustratingly narrow. When they hit the sweet spot, the car handles brilliantly, but staying inside that window takes constant work. For now, the factory is putting in relentless hours to prepare for the challenges ahead.
