Brundle: Happier Hamilton Can Still Win Races in Wide‑Open 2026

Martin Brundle says the Miami Sprint feels like a season relaunch, with Ferrari poised to close the gap to Mercedes. A more content Lewis Hamilton, now driving a car he enjoys, still has the pace to snag victories. The 2026 season remains wide‑open as the new regulations continue to shake up the hierarchy.

Why it matters:

Mercedes have won the first three rounds, putting them in pole position, but the performance gap is shrinking. Ferrari’s expected step forward could turn the championship battle into a multi‑team contest, and Hamilton’s improved mood may translate into stronger racecraft. With the regulations still fresh, any team that nails upgrades could vault into contention, making the outcome of each weekend critical for the title picture.

The details:

• Mercedes lead the Drivers' standings with Kimi Antonelli and George Russell after a perfect 3‑race start.
• Ferrari sit eight points behind in third and fourth place, represented by Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, and have shown better wheel‑to‑wheel pace in China and Japan.
• Hamilton broke his podium drought in Shanghai but fell to sixth at Suzuka; he now says the Ferrari feels more suited to his driving style.
• Miami hosts the second Sprint weekend of the year; McLaren won the last two sprints, yet Mercedes remain favourites given their early‑season form.
• Brundle stresses it’s too early to lock in a hierarchy – any of the top‑four teams could still capture the world title as upgrades roll out.

What's next:

The Miami Grand Prix kicks off on May 3 with practice, Sprint qualifying, the Sprint race and the main Grand Prix. Teams will debut their first major upgrades of the year, and a strong result could set the tone for the remaining 19 races. Hamilton will be looking to convert his newfound confidence into a win, while Ferrari hopes to prove the “big step” they’ve been banking on.