Lewis Hamilton expects stronger second half after positive Ferrari start

Hamilton sees room to build on strong opening half

Lewis Hamilton believes the second half of the Formula 1 season can be even more productive after a highly competitive opening period with Ferrari.

That run represents a significant improvement during his second season with Ferrari. The team has steadily introduced upgrades to reduce the gap to Mercedes, and Hamilton has credited the work being carried out at Maranello.

Ferrari’s development push continues

Hamilton said Ferrari has been bringing upgrades “weekend in, weekend out”, with further developments expected after the season’s midpoint. The comments underline the importance of the team’s continuous development programme as it attempts to close the performance deficit.

“I know the guys are pushing hard to bring upgrades for that,” he said. “We've been bringing upgrades weekend in, weekend out. We've got hopefully more to come in the second half, and we just keep on pushing.”

The Ferrari driver’s confidence also comes from his own past pattern of performance. Hamilton said the latter part of the campaign is usually a stronger period for him, adding to his belief that he can remain a factor in the championship fight.

His assessment follows a period in which Ferrari’s progress has made Hamilton a regular presence near the front. The team’s upgrade effort, combined with his top-six sequence, has kept him within reach of Antonelli despite the points deficit. Related coverage has also examined Hamilton’s recent Ferrari frustrations, highlighting the scrutiny that accompanies his return to consistent front-running form.

Reset before the next phase

Hamilton now plans to use the break to recover and prepare for the second half of the season, with a clear focus on returning in better condition.

“As I said, I'll really take this time to reset and try and come back stronger, fitter and better mentally prepared,” he said.

For Ferrari, the next phase will test whether its upgrade momentum can translate into a further reduction of the gap. For Hamilton, the target is equally clear: turn an already consistent campaign into a stronger championship charge.