Lewis Hamilton has described the current Formula 1 season as one of the most enjoyable of his career, pointing to closer racing and more on-track battles as key reasons.
Closer, More Competitive Racing
The seven-time world champion highlighted his recent fight with Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc as one of his best racing experiences in years. He praised the back-and-forth nature of the contest, saying it reflects how racing should be—dynamic, unpredictable and competitive over multiple laps.
Impact of New Regulations
This season’s new technical rules, particularly the shift toward a balance between combustion engines and electric power, have changed how drivers approach races. Managing energy throughout each lap has become crucial, often leading to repeated overtaking as drivers gain and lose advantage at different points.While some critics have labeled this style “yo-yo racing,” Hamilton sees it differently. He compared it to karting, where constant position changes are part of the excitement, and noted that modern cars now allow drivers to follow each other more closely without losing performance.
Mixed Feelings on Driving Experience
Despite enjoying the racing itself, Hamilton admitted he is not a fan of certain technical aspects, such as energy deployment systems and straight-line performance modes. However, he still believes the cars are lighter, more agile and more enjoyable to drive overall.
Divided Opinions in the Paddock
Not all drivers share his enthusiasm. Some have expressed concerns about the complexity of energy management and its impact on qualifying performance. Adjustments are already being discussed, with governing bodies considering tweaks to improve the balance between performance and driver control.
Looking Ahead
As Formula 1 continues to adapt to its new regulations, opinions remain mixed. But for Hamilton, the current era has brought back a key element that defines the sport—genuine, wheel-to-wheel racing that keeps both drivers and fans engaged.