Lewis Hamilton believes he will struggle to gain positions at the Formula 1 Brazilian Grand Prix, this Sunday (8), at Interlagos. In an interview given in the presence of F1MANIA.NET after Saturday’s qualifying (7), the Ferrari driver assessed that the changes to the 2026 regulations have made overtaking more challenging, even on a circuit traditionally conducive to on-track battles.
Questioned about the possibility of repeating comebacks like in 2021, Hamilton explained that the current functioning of aerodynamic resources can limit overtaking opportunities. “I think it will be harder. Because, back then, obviously, we had a very long straight and, if you closed in, there was DRS, while perhaps the car in front did not. But now everyone simply opens the wing,” he said.
The seven-time champion expressed concern about the characteristics of the battles under the current rules, but acknowledged that rain could modify the scenario. “So, I think overtaking will be very, very, very difficult. I’m not sure we’ll see the same type of race as in the past, but perhaps wet track conditions could change things,” he added.
Hamilton also explained that, given the penalties accumulated, Ferrari used Saturday’s qualifying mainly to better understand the car’s behavior. “The car is fine. Unfortunately, of course, we have the penalty, but the mechanics did a great job fixing the car. Basically, it was a training session for us, in which we tried to understand track conditions, how the tires work and all those things,” he stated.
Despite the unfavourable grid position, the Briton showed readiness to chase a meaningful result. When questioned about his Sunday strategy, he answered bluntly: “I don’t have one. I’ll try to win somehow.” Hamilton also stated that he enjoys racing in the rain and considered the conditions faced during qualifying to be safe.
The driver also touched on discussions about the implementation of the new racing rules, in the wake of questions related to the Mexican Grand Prix. Hamilton highlighted the importance of finding consistent regulatory solutions, but admitted he doesn’t know if the FIA will be able to fully resolve the difficulties. “I don’t know. I have no idea. I hope they can,” he concluded.
