Hamilton thanks Ferrari after long‑awaited podium in China

Lewis Hamilton snapped a three‑year podium drought at the 2026 Chinese Grand Prix, finishing third for Ferrari. The result, his first points finish with the Scuderia after a difficult 2025 debut, came as he praised the team’s “amazing” support.

Why it matters:

• It gives Hamilton his first Ferrari podium, signalling the team’s rapid adaptation to the new regulations.
• It shows a seasoned champion can rebound, reshaping the front‑row battle among Ferrari, Mercedes and Red Bull.

The details:

• Hamilton earned 15 points in China, joining a fourth place in Melbourne and a sixth in Japan for 35 points after three races.
• The podium also featured former teammate George Russell (second), rookie Kimi Antonelli (winner) and Hamilton’s longtime race engineer Peter Bonnington, adding a nostalgic vibe.

What's next:

• A five‑week pause follows Japan after the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian rounds were cancelled, giving Ferrari a rare development window.
• Hamilton expects further refinements to the 2026 power unit and aero package, targeting consistent top‑three finishes as the title fight heats up.