Lewis Hamilton responds to critics: 'I've proved you don't lose it'

Lewis Hamilton has stated his results at the start of the 2026 season have “proven” that it's possible to recover positive form through hard work.

Hamilton joined Ferrari last year but endured a miserable opening campaign with the Italian squad.

However, he has taken a substantial step forward with the introduction of the new technical regulations this year and sealed his first win with Ferrari last Sunday in Barcelona. 

When asked if he sees the win as uniquely special, Hamilton told media including RacingNews365: “They’re all special in their own way.

“There are different journeys to each of them. The one in Silverstone in 2024 was in its own way a monumental moment for me, because it’s a moment where I never thought maybe that I’d ever get to win again. 

“And then after a year like last year, there were definitely moments that I was like, 'Sheesh, maybe it is true that when you get to a certain point, you lose it.' 

“But I’ve proven that you don’t. You always have it and it just takes work.”

Hamilton currently sits second in the drivers' championship, 41 points down on Kimi Antonelli who dominated the opening portion of the season.

As Hamilton seeks to inject himself in the title fight, the seven-time champion insisted there is no question over his physical attributes almost 20 years deep into his F1 career.

“It takes perseverance, that constant believing in yourself to tap into your inner self and keep yourself alive, keep yourself fit,” he said.

“And I feel great physically, racing with 19-year-olds who are doing amazing, but I feel great.”