Lewis Hamilton quashes retirement talk with F1 2026 statement of intent
Lewis Hamilton has delivered a statement of intent ahead of the new F1 season.
Lewis Hamilton has issued a statement of intent heading into the 2026 F1 season, batting away suggestions he could retire.
Question marks have surrounded Hamilton’s F1 future after the seven-time world champion endured a nightmare debut season with Ferrari following a blockbuster switch from Mercedes.
Hamilton made several cryptic and negative comments about his own performance during a hugely disappointing 2025 campaign that left many wondering whether he could call time on his legendary F1 career.
But following a positive pre-season with Ferrari, Hamilton insisted he is “not going anywhere” and urged his supporters to remain loyal as he embarks on his second season in red.
“That’s a wrap on testing,” Hamilton wrote in a post on Instagram. “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. 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.”
Hamilton admitted that “for a moment, I forgot who I was” but stressed he is re-set and re-energised for the new F1 season, which begins with the Australian Grand Prix on 8 March.
“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,” Hamilton added.
“I’m re-set and refreshed. I’m not going anywhere, so stick with me. For a moment, I forgot who I was, but thanks to you and your support you’re not going to see that mindset again. I know what needs to be done.
“This is going to be one hell of a season. I’ve given everything to be here today. Let’s go team!!!”
Ferrari made a statement as pre-season testing concluded in Bahrain with Charles Leclerc setting the fastest time across the two weeks of running.
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