2026 Italian GP: Hamilton sees Ferrari gain

Lewis Hamilton said Ferrari’s Monza engine upgrade is a step forward, but reports from BBC Sport and Motorsport.com said Mercedes still held a straight-line edge.

Lewis Hamilton said Ferrari’s engine upgrade for the 2026 Italian Grand Prix was progress, but not the full gain the team needs. BBC Sport reported Hamilton said the new package was an improvement while Ferrari still trailed Mercedes on the straights at Monza. Hamilton arrived at the weekend third in the drivers’ championship on 183 points.

Motorsport.com also reported Hamilton believed Mercedes had a top-speed advantage that could matter at Monza, while Formula1.com reported he called pole position for Ferrari at its home race “the ultimate dream” after a strong Friday with Charles Leclerc. Ferrari is Formula 1’s Italian constructor and has 250 wins and 16 constructors’ titles across 77 seasons.