Photo: Race Pictures

Hamilton judges the SF-26 after setting the fastest lap in Barcelona

20:36, 30 Jan

Updated: 20:40, 30 Jan

byKada Sarkozi

Lewis Hamilton believes the 2026 F1 car is "more enjoyable" to drive compared to the previous generation.

"It's been a really enjoyable week honestly," Hamilton said to F1.com on Friday after the conclusion of his final test session of the week.

The seven-time world champion set the unofficial quickest time of the day and of the entire pre-season test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. He reportedly clocked a 1:16.348, finishing around a tenth ahead of George Russell.

He continued: "I think a huge amount of work over the winter on my side, personal side; then what the team have done over the winter to make changes going into the test."

"It was good to have that experience and get that knowledge [in wet conditions as well on Tuesday]."

Hamilton was very satisfied with the lack of issues this week, and could only praise the Scuderia.

"Just to see the mileage that we've been out to get the last couple of days, due to just so much great work from all the people back at the factory, which I'm really grateful for.

"Because having consistency, not having problems, of course there's always small things things, but we didn't really have any downtime moments where I'm sure perhaps they could potentially come over the next weeks, but otherwise it's a really really solid couple of days."

Photo: Race Pictures

Hamilton believes 2026 car is 'more fun'

Hamilton had difficulties with the previous generation of cars, claiming only two Grands Prix out of his 105 victories with them over the past few years.

He is more positive about the SF-26 and the new cars. He continued: "Then in terms of just understanding the car and the balance, we have a lot less downforce than previous years.

"The car generation is actually a little bit more fun to drive. It's oversteery and snappy and sliding, but it's a little bit easier to catch. And yes, I would definitely say more enjoyable.

"But we definitely have work to do to improve, of course, like everybody does."

As a result, Hamilton believes Ferrari is also gaining strong off-track momentum right now. "I really feel the winning mentality in every single person in the team more than ever, so it's positive," he concluded.

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