Charles Leclerc has addressed why he chose not to adopt Lewis Hamilton’s driving style during Ferrari’s difficult 2026 Formula 1® campaign. Despite the challenges posed by the new regulations and the SF-26 car, Leclerc emphasized the importance of maintaining his natural approach behind the wheel rather than trying to imitate his teammate.
Throughout the 2026 season, Leclerc faced notable struggles with Ferrari’s car, particularly in races such as Montreal and Monaco. While his qualifying record against Hamilton was close, with Hamilton leading 10-9, Leclerc’s performance was affected by incidents including a crash in Barcelona and a brake-related accident in Monaco. During a tough stretch, Leclerc scored 16 points compared to Hamilton’s 64, highlighting the difficulties he encountered with the car’s handling and reliability.
Leclerc explained that feeling comfortable in the car is crucial for extracting its full potential. He acknowledged that Hamilton’s driving style suits the seven-time world champion’s unique talent but is not easily replicated by others. Instead of trying to copy Hamilton, Leclerc focused on adapting the car setup to better fit his own driving preferences. This approach helped him regain confidence and improve results as the season progressed.
One key change that aided Leclerc was switching to Carbone Industrie brake discs, which contributed to better car balance and allowed him to perform strongly at Silverstone, where he secured a front-row qualifying position and a race win. Since then, Leclerc has been among the top points scorers over six rounds, consistently finishing in the top five except for a crash at Monza. Hamilton, meanwhile, scored fewer points in the same period and faced brake issues that led to a retirement.
Leclerc’s comments underline the challenges drivers face when adapting to new technical regulations and the importance of personal driving style in managing those changes. His decision to prioritize comfort and natural driving over imitation reflects a pragmatic approach to overcoming the SF-26’s difficulties.
By focusing on car setup adjustments tailored to his style, Leclerc has been able to improve his performance despite the ongoing challenges with Ferrari’s 2026 car. His experience highlights how individual driver preferences and confidence remain key factors in navigating the evolving landscape of Formula 1® regulations and machinery.