Lewis Hamilton: I forgot who I was but you're not going to see that mindset again

In a defiant message posted on Instagram, the seven-time F1 world champion Hamilton made it clear he was fully motivated again after a disappointing first season with the Italian team.

"I love this job so much, and I love working with my team and driving for the fans," said the 41-year-old Briton, who joined Ferrari from Mercedes last year amid much initial fanfare. "I'm incredibly lucky to be able to do what I do, and I'm excited for the season ahead.

"I'm reset and refreshed. I'm not going anywhere, so stick with me. For a moment, I forgot who I was, but thanks to you and your support you're not going to see that mindset again. I know what needs to be done. This is going to be one hell of a season," added Hamilton.

The most successful driver in Formula 1 history had the worst season of his career last year, failing to get on the podium in 24 races and sounding increasingly gloomy.

At one point last year he called himself "useless" and urged Ferrari to find another driver as he struggled to come to grips with the new car and the team after his a dozen years with Mercedes.

Ferrari also failed to win a race in 2025 but have looked strong in testing in Bahrain this month, with Hamilton's teammate Charles Leclerc fastest in this week's final session before the cars are flown to Australia for the first race on March 8.

Andrea Stella, the boss of reigning World Champion team McLaren, told reporters on Friday that he saw Mercedes and Ferrari as the teams to beat: "McLaren and Red Bull probably very similar, Ferrari and Mercedes a step ahead." (Reporting by Alan Baldwin)