Hamilton champions new F1 rules, calling it 'best racing ever' amid driver criticism

Lewis Hamilton has delivered a full-throated endorsement of Formula 1's latest technical regulations, directly countering the widespread criticism from rivals like Max Verstappen. The Ferrari driver, fresh from a podium in China, described the racing as the best of his career, highlighting improved car-following and thrilling wheel-to-wheel battles that remind him of karting days.

Why it matters:

Hamilton's strong defense places him at odds with a vocal segment of the grid, including the reigning champion, creating a clear philosophical split over the sport's direction. His perspective, grounded in recent on-track success with Ferrari, adds significant weight to the debate about whether the 2026 rules are achieving their core goal of improving the racing spectacle.

The details:

• Direct Rebuttal: Hamilton explicitly stated, "I think it’s the best racing that I’ve ever experienced in Formula 1," pushing back against Verstappen's recent complaints that the new rules create a "Mario Kart"-like spectacle.
• Technical Praise: He pinpointed the cars being "easier to follow" with a less disruptive aerodynamic wake, allowing drivers to get "very close" without a catastrophic loss of downforce.
• On-Track Excitement: The seven-time champion compared the racing to "go-karting," emphasizing respectful, paint-swapping battles with mere millimeters separating cars.
• Personal Progress: Beyond the car, Hamilton noted his deeper involvement in Ferrari's 2026 development from mid-2025, contrasting with his late arrival for the previous season. He credits this earlier simulator work and strengthening team relationships for a more connected and effective partnership.

What's next:

The schism in driver opinion is unlikely to fade, putting the onus on the FIA and F1 to evaluate the real-world data against the complaints. Hamilton's newfound competitive form with Ferrari will continue to test his positive assessment. If close racing remains the norm and Ferrari's development trajectory continues upward, his optimistic view may gain more adherents in the paddock, shaping the narrative around the regulatory cycle.