Lewis Hamilton reflects on a disappointing first half of the season with Ferrari. The seven-time world champion has yet to stand on the podium this season and referred to himself as a ‘useless’ driver during the last race weekend in Hungary. While Hamilton struggles with his red racer, Sergio Pérez is focusing on his comeback with Cadillac. The Mexican explains how he and Hamilton have both struggled with the current ground-effect regulations.
Sky Sports asked Pérez during a Cadillac event whether he thinks the new regulations for 2026 could help him and Hamilton, given the recent challenges. “I think these regulations have been tough, as we’ve seen with Lewis (Hamilton),” responded the Mexican. “Nevertheless, he did a fantastic job at Mercedes when they didn’t have a competitive car. It hasn’t been easy for him to switch teams at the end of an era and have to adapt. That being said, he remains a fantastic driver. I’m sure he’ll come out of this.”
New Regulations
Pérez emphasized that many drivers need time to tune the car to their driving style. “Sometimes it takes a bit longer,” he explained. “I’ve done well in the past, so based on that, I think the new regulations will suit me.” Pérez will team up with a former teammate of Lewis Hamilton, 35-year-old Valtteri Bottas, next year and is looking forward to working with the eccentric Finn.
“We are both very competitive and hungry,” Pérez said enthusiastically. “We have a lot of experience in the sport, which certainly helps. I think it’s going to work out very well. We are motivated to return. Valtteri (Bottas) is of course still very much involved in the sport, so that’s a plus. Personally, I’m glad I’ve been away for a year. I’m not looking forward to going to races this year – I’m glad I can still watch them on TV for now. We have plenty of Grands Prix waiting for us next year.”
