Hamilton re-set and refreshed: ‘For a moment, I forgot who I was’

Lewis Hamilton has drawn a bold line under last season’s frustrations, declaring himself “re-set and refreshed” as he gears up for a fresh assault with Ferrari in 2026.

After a bruising campaign that failed to deliver a single podium – an unfamiliar statistic for a seven-time world champion – the Brit arrived in Bahrain this winter looking lighter, looser and unmistakably re-energised.

And if pre-season testing is anything to go by, both Hamilton and the Scuderia have reason to believe brighter days are within reach.

The SF-26 showed flashes of promise across long runs and race simulations in Bahrain, with encouraging one-lap pace and blistering fast getaways that have the Tifosi daring to dream.

A Message Straight to the Fans

Despite still waiting for a permanent race engineer to be confirmed, Hamilton’s focus remained locked on the Herculean effort behind the scenes. Taking to social media to reflect on a productive fortnight in Bahrain, he sounded like a rookie falling in love with the sport all over again.

“That’s a wrap on testing,” he shared with his millions of followers.

“It’s inspiring to watch a team pull out all the stops to build a car. It’s the most fascinating part of this job for me. Everything is built from scratch and designed and redesigned over and over. And then there are only a few of us who get to put that machine to the test. That feeling never gets old.”

The gratitude didn't stop at the drawing board. Hamilton made sure the unsung heroes in Maranello knew their sweat hadn't gone unnoticed.

“I want to say a huge thank you to everyone in the team back at the factory for the hard work to get to this point!! I am truly grateful,” he added.

“I love this job so much and I love working with my team and driving for the fans. I’m incredibly lucky to be able to do what I do, and I’m excited for the season ahead.”

A Legend Reclaimed

Perhaps most striking was Hamilton’s raw vulnerability regarding his recent slump. He admitted that the winter break wasn't just about physical rest, but about reclaiming a lost identity.

After a season that would have broken a lesser driver, Lewis is sending a warning shot to anyone who thought he was winding down.

“I’m re-set and refreshed. I’m not going anywhere, so stick with me,” he declared, directly addressing the fan base that kept his fire burning during the podium drought.

“For a moment, I forgot who I was, but thanks to you and your support you’re not going to see that mindset again.”

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With the 2026 season marking his 20th year at the pinnacle of motorsport, the hunger is back, and the "hammer time" vibes are palpable.

“I know what needs to be done. This is going to be one hell of a season,” he concluded. “I’ve given everything to be here today. Let’s go team!!!”

The message was less a status update, more a declaration. Hamilton feels recharged – and with a new campaign looming, he’s ready to roll once more.

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